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Discipleship and Mission

Discipleship and Mission

Discipleship and Mission

GENERAL INTRODUCTION This quarter surveys several calls to ministry and the expectations of those called. Calls to service, as recorded in the of Mark and Luke, are highlighted. We explore Paul’s call to ministry, with special attention to the Roman church. On Easter Sunday, we examine Matthew’s account of the Resurrection. Unit I, “Call to Discipleship,” has four lessons and highlights several aspects of what it means to be called by as a . They include hospitality, counting the cost, reaching the lost, and salvation for all people. Unit II, “Call to Ministry,” has five lessons that explore the diverse ways in which Jesus’ disciples were challenged to exercise their call to ministry: by witnessing to the message, acting with loving kindness, sharing the Resurrection story, and making new disciples through preaching, teaching, and baptism. Unit III, “The Spread of the Gospel” (four lessons), begins with Paul’s introduction of himself to the Jewish and Gentile Christians living in Rome. Paul affirms that the call to salvation is to Israel and to Gentiles. This call to salvation is a call to a life in the Spirit and involves a new life in .

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 1

2 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018

March 3, 2019 Lesson 1

CALLED TO HUMILITY AND

HOSPITALITY ADULT/YOUTH CHILDREN ADULT/YOUNG ADULT TOPIC: Humility Is Good GENERAL LESSON TITLE: Called to Be Humble for You and Kind YOUTH TOPIC: Sitting with the Lowly CHILDREN’S TOPIC: Dare to Care and Share

DEVOTIONAL READING :15-24 ADULT/YOUTH BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Luke 14:7-14 BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Luke 14:7-14 PRINT PASSAGE: Luke 14:7-14 PRINT PASSAGE: Luke 14:7-14 KEY VERSES: Luke 14:13-14a KEY VERSE: Luke 14:11 CHILDREN Luke 14:7-14—KJV Luke 14:7-14—NIV 7 And he put forth a to those which 7 When he noticed how the guests picked were bidden, when he marked how they chose the places of honor at the table, he told them this out the chief rooms; saying unto them. parable: 8 When thou art bidden of any man to a 8 “When someone invites you to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a wedding feast, do not take the place of honor, for more honourable man than thou be bidden of a person more distinguished than you may have him; been invited. 9 “If so, the host who invited both 9 And he that bade thee and him come and of you will come and say to you, ‘Give this person say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin your seat.’ Th en, humiliated, you will have to with shame to take the lowest room. take the least important place. 10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit 10 “But when you are invited, take the lowest down in the lowest room; that when he that bade place, so that when your host comes, he will say thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up to you, ‘Friend, move up to a better place.’ Th en higher: then shalt thou have worship in the you will be honored in the presence of all the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. other guests. 11 “For all those who exalt 11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be themselves will be humbled, and those who abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be humble themselves will be exalted.” 12 Then exalted. 12 Th en said he also to him that bade Jesus said to his host, “When you give a luncheon him, When thou or dinner, do not invite your friends, makest a

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 3 dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a back and so you will be repaid. recompence be made thee. 13 “But when you give a banquet, invite the

UNIFYING LESSON PRINCIPLE: People crave recognition and status but are never satisfi ed and always want more. How does one fi nd true fulfi llment in relationship to others? Jesus taught that demonstrating humility and extending unselfi sh hospitality bring fulfi llment in this life and in the life to come.

LESSON OBJECTIVES Upon the completion of this lesson, the students will be able to do the following: 1. Examine Jesus’ teaching about humility and hospitality described in Luke 14:7-14. 2. Refl ect on their own tendencies to seek honor and praise for selfi sh reasons. 3. Identify ways to give honor and respect to people who might be considered “unworthy” by popular standards.

13 But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: 14 “and you will be blessed. Although they 14 And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be resurrection of the righteous.” recompensed at the resurrection of the just. AGE-LEVEL POINTS TO BE —Th ese teachings of Jesus about true spiritual EMPHASIZED character in His followers fi t well into His Teachers of ADULTS and YOUTH tendency of reversal of social practices typical —Jesus was introducing a new teaching—the of the times (see Matthew 5–7). importance and rewards of crossing social —Th e direct opposite of the humility Jesus boundaries, to include people already humbled teaches in these verses is exhibited by the by life’s circumstances. mother of the sons of and the —In many cultures, honor equals power. Being disciples in Matthew 20:20-28. exalted by others is okay, but self-exaltation is —Luke 14:1-6 provides background and setting not (see Proverbs 25:6-7; Matthew 23:12; for this parable. :14; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5-6). —In the Greco-Roman world, inviting someone —Self-examination, discipline, and sacrifi ce are of inferior status was acceptable, but inviting a required in seeking to understand and follow crippled or poor person was not. the teaching of Jesus about humility and —It was already taught that God would reward hospitality. those who helped the poor (see Proverbs 19:17).

4 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 Teachers of CHILDREN —Don’t assume you are the most important per- —When invited to a celebration, show humility son at a celebration. by leaving the best seats for special guests. —Issue invitations to special events to persons —Allow your host to decide who will have the best seats. whose social locations are different from yours.

—Give your host an opportunity to honor you by —Both guests and hosts are addressed in Jesus’ seating you in the best location. story. All are responsible for hospitality.

THE CHRONOLOGICAL SETTING OF cultural norms of that day, seeking places of honor at dinner parties was quite typical THE LESSON behavior. Jesus, an invited guest at the dinner Jesus’ discourse in Luke 14:7-14 is given in the party, observed the other guests’ jockeying to setting of a meal. More specifically, it relates to grab the seats closest to the host that would meals within the framework of invitations to bestow on them the badge of highest ranking in dinner parties. The idea of a dinner party the social order. The hosts arranged the couches functions on three levels in this scene: (1) The in the dining area to reflect the order of the dinner party as setting for Jesus’ discourse; (2) importance of the guests. Where one sat Jesus’ discourse about (human) dinner parties; (3) indicated one’s rank relative to that of the other the dinner party as a metaphor for the joyful guests. Getting a good seat at the party said a lot kingdom of God. The interplay between these about one’s social standing in the community. three levels adds to the richness of this scene. After observing the guests’ stepping all over one The scene may reflect the custom of the another for the most prominent seats at the symposium, a dinner and drinking party that dinner party, Jesus took them to task for this included after-dinner speeches. The symposium widely practiced custom. He had already could be the setting for philosophical discussion pronounced a woe on a group of for or merely for witty remarks. In Luke 14, their love of the seats of honor in the however, Jesus alone is allowed to give a speech. marketplaces (see :43). He characterized The narrator is interested only in Jesus’ them as those who seek righteousness in the discourse, leaving us with the impression that the sight of others. Much later, He would warn His others cannot match Jesus’ wisdom. disciples not to be like the scribes who parade about in long robes, desiring to be saluted with THE GEOGRAPHICAL AND stately greetings in public, while seeking places of CULTURAL SETTING OF THE honor at banquets (see :46). In our lesson today, Jesus witnessed a similar grab for LESSON honor and power in action—as the guests made The dinner at the Pharisee’s house, mentioned a mad dash for the most prominent seats of earlier in Luke 14:1, is the setting of this passage. honor as if it were a game of musical chairs. The scribes and the Pharisees had been watching Jesus closely, but now the tables were turned, and He began to watch them. According to the

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 5 PROMINENT CHARACTER(S) IN I. Introduction A. Lessons in Kingdom Etiquette THE LESSON B. Biblical Background Pharisees: persons comprising one of the parties within Judaism of the late Second Temple period, known for their exact observance of the Jewish religion. I. INTRODUCTION A. Lessons in Kingdom KEY TERMS IN THE LESSON Etiquette Exalt (verse 11)—Greek: hypsoō (hü-pso’-ō): II. Exposition and Application to lift up on high; to exalt; “exalteth” (KJV). of the Scripture Humbled (verse 11)—Greek: tapeinoō (tä- A. Th e Eternal Perils of Vain Glory pāno’-ō): devoid of all haughtiness; “humbleth” (Luke 14:7-9) (KJV). B. Th e Rewards of Humility Parable (verse 7)—Greek: parabolē (pä-rä- bolā’): an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. (Luke 14:10) Poor (verse 13)—Hebrew: ebyown (ev·yōn’); C. Th e Dangers of Self-exaltation Greek: ptōchos (ptō-kho’s): destitute of wealth, (Luke 14:11) infl uence, position, honor. D. Whom You Invite Matters in the Kingdom TOPICAL OUTLINE OF (Luke 14:12-14) THE LESSON

6 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 III. Concluding Refl ection

We all know people who go out of their way to be seen in the company of infl uential and prominent people. Such people are all too inclined to spend money they do not have, buying things they do not need and trying to impress folks they do not even like. Some go to great lengths to make sure people know they have achieved a certain status in life. Th ey achieve this through loud voices, fl amboyant clothing, or an endless competitive spirit. Some announce their social arrival through name dropping, always calling attention to the high and mighty with whom they come into contact. Others make an all-out eff ort to belong to the right clubs and organizations. Th ey have to believe they are among the movers and shakers in their community, or else they feel defl ated and insignifi cant. Th ey engage in all kinds of fanfare to be seen in the company of the right people, at the right places, and at the right time. Such status seekers will go to great lengths to make sure they are in the in-crowd. In today’s lesson, Jesus thought that the way to be noticed is not necessarily by rubbing shoulders with the high and mighty nor in standing out in the crowd in exceptional ways. Jesus thought that exaltation comes from true humility and that in God’s order of divine reversal, the fi rst shall be last and the last shall be fi rst. Honor and respect are achieved through humility in the eyes of God. In the rule and reign of God, those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will exalted. Th e way to honor is through humility and service to others. B. Biblical Background On a Sabbath day at an unspecifi ed location on His journey toward , Jesus

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 7 went for a meal in the home of one of the shame, have to take a lower place. leading Pharisees. At this meal, the Pharisees Conversely, if they take a low place, then the were watching Him closely. Luke set the host may invite them to take a higher place scene of a typical elite group in society, given and then they would be honored in the sight to selfindulgent feasting. Jesus brought of all at the table. challenging words to their closed, self- As the meal continues, the focus of the absorbed world as He watched them choose teaching turned to the kinds of people one the places of honor at the dinner, another should invite to such a gathering—the poor feature of this self-absorbed, status- and hungry who have no way to return the conscious elite group. The places assigned to favor. With this group in mind, Jesus issued a person at a dinner represented a public another challenge to the elite, closed group at recognition of their status in the peer group the Sabbath meal. He told the host that when of elite dinner guests. To be assigned a place he held a feast, to stop inviting friends, of honor was very gratifying, but to be brothers, relations, and rich neighbors, assigned a place that did not reflect one’s and—instead of these four categories of own sense of status in the group could cause people who could reciprocate the offense and put someone in a vile mood invitation—he should invite four different while he or she was reclining at dinner. categories of people: the poor, the crippled, After observing them jockey for the best the lame, and the blind. These stereotypes of seats at the dinner party, Jesus told them a the poor make up the marginalized members parable. He told them not to pick a seat in of society as distinct from the wealthy the place of honor when invited to a dinner-party invitees who could reciprocate wedding feast, for someone more important the invitations they receive.

II. EXPOSITION AND APPLICATION OF THE SCRIPTURE may be invited and they would then, to their A. The Eternal Perils of Vain Jesus’ advice to the guests at a dinner Glory (Luke 14:7-9) party to which He had been invited (verse 7) And he put forth a parable to those which is called a parable, not because He told the were bidden, when he marked how they guests an illustrative story, but to alert the chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them. reader that He was talking about more than When thou art bidden of any man to a dining etiquette at a banquet table. Jesus was wedding, sit not down in the highest room; a keen observer of human beings. In Jewish lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; And he that bade thee and banquets, the guests were arranged in him come and say to thee, Give this man positions that put them nearer or farther place; and thou begin with shame to take the away from the host, with a closer seat lowest room. reflecting greater social status or honor by the host. When the invited guests chose the

8 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 higher positions for themselves, without self-admiration and self-exaltation can lead to being placed there by the host, they showed disastrous consequences at a dinner party in that they thought they deserved the this world, it will lead to even more honorable position, or that this was how they disastrous results in the final judgment. wanted others to see them. Jesus pointed out the unnecessary risk B. The Rewards of Humility that they took in doing so, because someone (Luke 14:10) more important than they might arrive and But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in be given the high seat of honor nearest the the lowest room; that when he that bade host. The status seekers would then lose face thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, by being asked to get up and take a position go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in lower down the line of guests. It is far better the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. to be publicly honored by being called to a Having seen the guests at the banquet higher position than to be called down to a possibly pushing and shoving in a scramble lower position. In giving this example from for the better seats, Jesus offered a lesson in real life, Jesus was not encouraging people to humility. He alone is in a position to offer be falsely humble. Jesus’ point was that the such advice, for while we are not told which virtue of humility is a leading character trait place He had been given, we can be sure He in His kingdom—where the childlike and the would not have jostled anyone for a seat. In humble are honored and the proudly self- Luke 14:10, Jesus did not say that the invited righteous are shut out. Those who have been guests should sit two or three places away too proud to humble themselves before from the most preferred seats but, rather, Christ will be publicly humbled by God, and they should choose the farthest place down those whom the world has treated with from the most preferred seats. Why? It is disdain for Christ’s sake will be publicly much better, says Jesus, to be asked to sit exalted. Humility ultimately lifts us up, while higher than to be called out and instructed by pride eventually brings us down. the host to take a lower seat. When called up Dinners were regarded as barometers of to the higher seat, says Jesus, you will be one’s prestige in the gathering and in the honored in the presence of all who sit at the community. To be brought to public shame table with you. Jesus is admonishing the at such an occasion—by being asked down guests to “drop back into the lowest or last from the higher seat—would be almost place.” unbearable to a social climber. Honor and In the eyes of God, not all behavior is shame were matters of life and death, and commendable or praiseworthy. Using seating saving face was more important than choices at dinner as an example, Jesus garnering wealth. informs His hearers that God is not Jesus wishes to wake up His audience to impressed by selfpromoting behavior. In the life-and-death issues that are truly life- kingdom of God, humility will ultimately rule anddeath issues with eternal ramifications. If Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 9 the day, and such a posture finds favor with very graciously in the world to come. The God. Jesus warns that the attempt to gain the stakes are high. The Gospel contains both place of honor can actually lead to its warning and promise. Which will it be for opposite: the shame of being moved to the us? lowest place. If you want to be honored, do D. Whom You Invite Matters in the not run for the highest place and risk being ordered to the lowest, but quietly seek out Kingdom (Luke 14:12-14) the lowest place with the possibility of being Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call asked up to a higher one. In the eyes of not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy Jesus, it is humility in our dealings with kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they others that brings us honor. also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, C. The Dangers of Self- call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the exaltation (Luke 14:11) blind: And thou shalt be blessed; for they For whosoever exalteth himself shall be cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall recompensed at the resurrection of the just. be exalted. Initially, Jesus’ teaching called into The Gospel significance of Jesus’ teaching question the self-seeking agenda of His table in this passage is made clear in these two companions at the dinner party, but more additional concluding lines found in verse 11 fundamentally, beginning with verse 12, He (NASB): “For everyone who exalts himself now went on to hint at a life-world in which will be humbled, and he who humbles honor was measured and granted along himself will be exalted.” Suddenly, we are far unforeseen lines. Having addressed the beyond the wedding feast. We are far beyond guests, Jesus now turned to the host. He, table manners, as good and as important as too, had acted poorly. How relatively easy they are. We are far beyond social strategies and tempting to give a dinner for close of how to be honored instead of friends, family members, or right neighbors. embarrassed. Suddenly, the teaching has Guests like these are quite capable of been universalized to apply to all people, returning the favor. How much more costly including us. Moreover, the teaching has and genuine, said Jesus, it is to invite people been placed within the ultimate context of with no social connections—the poor, the final judgment—of eternal humiliation or disadvantaged, and ordinary. They cannot exaltation. Self-exaltation and arrogance here pay back in kind, so they are the real test of a in this world—such as unbelief in, rejection person’s generosity. of, and disobedience to God—will be dealt Thus, Jesus admonished the host that with supremely harshly in the world to come. when he gives a meal not to invite friends, Selfhumbling and service in this world— family, other relatives, or rich neighbors, but such as faith in, acceptance of, and rather to invite the poor, the maimed, the obedience to Jesus Christ—will be dealt with lame, and the blind. Jesus was not forbidding

10 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 one to invite one’s family, friends, and According to Jesus, God will humble those neighbors to meals, but He was forbidding who exalt themselves, and exalt those who inviting them exclusively. The host was no humble themselves. Additionally, God will less self-centered than the guests clambering repay on the day of resurrection those who over one another for the seats of honor if he include the poor and the outcasts to share in invited only the honorable in his social circle their feasts. These pronouncements make who could reciprocate and bestow future clear that Jesus’ advice concerning worldly benefits and honor on him. If his aim in issues involving human preoccupations with inviting was merely to schmooze with the honor and shame will have eternal influential and well-connected in his own ramifications. Rather than seeking kudos inner circle, then he was no better than those from humans, one should concentrate on jockeying for seats of honor at his table. honoring those whom God honors. Christian discipleship is not self- On a regular basis, believers are faced promotion but freedom from it, freedom with two choices—one which has a negative from selfobsession itself. Our trust should be in the One who calls, for it is He who will bestow our personal identity and honor as HOME DAILY READINGS well as our purpose and place in life. (February 25–March 3, 2019) The careful practice of humility in our Called to Humility and Hospitality relationship with others is essential to our coming to authentic knowledge of God. It is consequence, and the other a positive to this altogether new and higher standard of benefit. Before acting, it is helpful to review hospitality that Jesus calls us. The amazing the choices before us and to reflect upon graciousness of God toward us in Christ calls these in light of the Gospel. It is easy for our for a reciprocal graciousness toward those actions to be determined by the mores of the who have no obvious claim to it. Hospitality dominant culture. In the eyes of Jesus, in the light of Christ is not part of social whoever promotes oneself or acts in obligation or reciprocity. Rather, it is like our expectation of repayment from others in a very forgiveness—part of our identification quid pro quo arrangement is far from living out with His love for the unlovely and those who the values of the kingdom. “How many of can never hope to reciprocate. my daily actions are determined by an effort to make myself look good in the eyes of III. CONCLUDING REFLECTION others? How much of my time and energy is Jesus’ counsel to His fellow guests and devoted to promoting my career, my status, His host would seem to be advice on my place in the world?” This passage gracious living related to table etiquette and prompts us to pause and to reevaluate. “Is compiling guest rosters were it not for the there a true north to my moral compass, or climaxes in 14:11 and 14:14, which introduce does it point in whatever direction I can what God will do in the final judgment. attain the greatest personal benefit?” Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 11

PRAYER may we find comfort and assurance in living the Dear God, teach us the power of humility, and help identity of those who have been called to follow You. us not to seek for the vainglory of the world. Teach us In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. how to be the people You have called us to be, and MONDAY, February 25: “Wait to Enter the King’s Presence” (Proverbs 25:2-7a) TUESDAY, February 26: “Treat the Poor and Rich Impartially” (James 2:1-7) WEDNESDAY, February 27: “Love and Pray for the Persecutor” (Matthew 5:43-48) THURSDAY, February 28: “A Life Worthy of God’s Call” (Ephesians 4:1-7) FRIDAY, March 1: “Serving with Love on the Sabbath” (Luke 14:1-6) SATURDAY, March 2: “The Great Dinner for All Peoples” (Luke 14:15-24) SUNDAY, March 3: “Humility, the Right Path for Believers” (Luke 14:7-14)

A COSTLY CALL ADULT/YOUTH CHILDREN ADULT/YOUNG ADULT TOPIC: Counting the Cost GENERAL LESSON TITLE: Following Jesus YOUTH TOPIC: Counting the Cost Is Costly CHILDREN’S TOPIC: Paying the Cost

DEVOTIONAL READING Philippians 3:7-16

ADULT/YOUTH BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: :16-20; BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Mark 1:16-20; Luke 14:25-33 PRINT PASSAGE: Mark Luke 14:25-33 PRINT PASSAGE: Mark 1:16-20; Luke 14:25-33 KEY VERSES: 1:16-20; Luke 14:25-33 KEY VERSE: Mark 1:17-18 Luke 14:27 CHILDREN Mark 1:16-20; Luke 14:25-33—KJV 17 And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after 16 Now as he walked by the sea of , me, and I will make you to become fi shers of he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a men. 18 And straightway they forsook their nets, net into the sea: for they were fi shers. and followed him.

12 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 19 And when he had gone a little farther thence, consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his to meet him that cometh against him with twenty brother, who also were in the ship mending their thousand? nets. 20 And straightway he called them: and they 32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired off , he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth servants, and went after him. conditions of peace. 33 So likewise, whosoever he ….. be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he 25 And there went great multitudes with cannot be my disciple. him: and he turned, and said unto them, yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be 26 If any man come to me, and hate not his my disciple. father, and mother, and wife, and children, and 27 “And whoever does not carry their cross brethren, and follow me cannot be my disciple. Mark 1:16-20; Luke 14:25-33—NIV 28 “Suppose one of you wants to build a 16 As Jesus walked beside the Sea of tower. Won’t you fi rst sit down and estimate the Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew cost to see if you have enough money to complete casting a net into the lake, for they were fi it? shermen. 29 “For if you lay the foundation and are not 17 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I able to fi nish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule will send you out to fi sh for people.” you, 30 “saying, ‘Th is person began to build and 18 At once they left their nets and followed wasn’t able to fi nish.’ him.19 When he had gone a little farther, he saw 31 “Or suppose a king is about to go to war James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a against another king. Won’t he fi rst sit down and boat, preparing their nets. consider whether he is able with ten thousand 20 Without delay he called them, and they left men to oppose the one coming against him with their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired twenty thousand? 32 “If he is not able, he will men and followed him. send a delegation while the other is still a long ….. way off and will ask for terms of peace. 25 Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: 26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters— and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. 27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. 28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down fi rst, and counteth the cost, whether he have suffi cient to fi nish it? 29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to fi nish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, 30 Saying, Th is man began to build, and was not able to fi nish. 31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down fi rst, and

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 13 33 “In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.”

UNIFYING LESSON PRINCIPLE: People are always faced with choices between the comfortable, easy way, and the more helpful but challenging way. How do we make the right choice? Jesus challenged His hearers to count the cost and recognize the consequences of discipleship.

LESSON OBJECTIVES Upon the completion of this lesson, the students will be able to do the following: 1. Summarize what Jesus said about counting the cost of being His disciple. 2. Appreciate how the demands of discipleship can force one to make some hard choices in life. 3. Recognize what one must be prepared to give up to be Christ’s disciple.

AGE-LEVEL POINTS TO BE —“Hate” in this context signifi es a relative lack of EMPHASIZED importance. Holding family and possessions to Teachers of ADULTS and YOUTH be more important than Christ is idolatry. —In Jewish culture, to study under a rabbi was a —Crucifi xion was a cruel and terrible form of great honor. execution. Th erefore, one’s carrying his/her cross —Radical discipleship—putting Christ before is a shocking image of self-sacrifi ce (see Luke family and possessions—is a diffi cult calling, 9:23). especially for those who have much. —Faithfulness (choosing to follow Jesus even after

14 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 counting the cost) is a hallmark of committed Teachers of CHILDREN discipleship. —Jesus’ first four disciples were fishermen who —The ready response of the brothers Simon and left their trade and families to follow Jesus. Andrew and James and John to Jesus’ call for —Following Jesus is accompanied by personal their discipleship attests to the natural sacrifices and hardships. charisma of Jesus in His appeals to attract —Those who follow Jesus are reminded of the followers. cost of being His disciples. —Devoting all the property to the community —True disciples willingly give first priority to was considered radical by early Judaic and their relationship with Jesus.

Greco-Roman standards. THE CHRONOLOGICAL SETTING OF Jesus. Additionally, in verse 33, coming to Jesus is defined in terms of forsaking earthly THE LESSON possessions. Coming to Jesus, in other words, The structure of these narratives is very means acknowledging Jesus as the preeminent similar to the call of Elisha by Elijah in 1 Kings relationship in one’s life, and one whose presence 19:19-21; this scene in the Old Testament is takes precedence over all things in life. Exclusive generally considered as the model that inspired allegiance is what is required of all those who Mark’s narrative setting of the call of Jesus’ would follow Jesus. disciples. Even though Mark may have been inspired by this Old Testament model, he did not want to present Jesus as the new Elijah, since the THE GEOGRAPHICAL AND figure of Elijah is reserved for . CULTURAL SETTING OF THE Mark chose instead to illustrate the theme of the LESSON prophetic authority that belonged to Jesus as He The passages before us are among the most called people away from their old way of life to a dynamic in the Gospels, but it should be new life of service in following Him. Various remembered that these words were spoken to sayings in Luke 14:25-33 are similar to those in crowds that were already eagerly anticipating the the book of Mark. Luke carefully constructed early establishment of a kingdom. Excitement this charge to discipleship from Mark’s gospel. was beginning to run high, for it was obvious to Luke characterized discipleship as “coming to all that Jesus was marching toward Jerusalem (see Jesus.” The full significance of coming to Jesus is Luke 14:25). It is very possible that even as He defined in terms of “hating” father and mother, walked, the Lord was able to hear the wife, children, brothers, sisters, and even self. conversation of those who accompanied Him. The call of Jesus takes precedence even over They were convinced that the glory of the primary familial and marital relationships of life. messianic kingdom was about to break over In verse 27, coming to Jesus is defined in terms Israel, and therefore the Master felt constrained of bearing one’s cross, an image of discipleship to correct their mistaken beliefs. He knew that introduced earlier. The Cross (see :23), an the Cross was awaiting Him within the city to instrument of suffering and shame, epitomizes which He was journeying, and unless these eager the sacrifices required of a disciple in following Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 15 people were prepared for what was to come, was a native of and had a home in their faith would disintegrate. Therefore, the . He was considered the “leader” theme of this passage is indisputably the cost of among the disciples/apostles (the Twelve). discipleship. Many writers have spiritualized the verses to make them mean many things, but the I. INTRODUCTION only thing obvious here is that Christ was warning people about making hasty decisions. A. Follow Me! Following Christ meant deliberation and very KEY TERMS IN THE LESSON much determination. No one ever had a picnic Cross (Luke 14:27)—Greek: stauros (stau- on a cross. Probably the tower to which Christ ro’s): a well-known instrument of most cruel and referred was the usual tall tower often found in ignominious punishment. To it were affi xed vineyards. Th is was a lookout tower from which among the Romans, down to the time of the watchman could see any pilferer of the Constantine the Great, the guiltiest criminals. harvest. Disciple (Luke 14:26)—Greek: mathētēs Th e life of discipleship would make exacting (mäthā-tā’s): a learner; pupil. demands upon all who decided to follow Christ. Hate (Luke 14:26)—Greek: miseō (mē-se’-ō): Consequently, prospective disciples were urged to detach, detest. to count the cost, for ultimately the claims of the Peace (Luke 14:32)—Greek: eirēnē (ā-rā’-nā): Cross would divide families, and even the dearest the tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation of earthly friends would oppose the dedicated through Christ. Christian. Unless the disciples were willing to leave father and mother and friends—unless they were willing to go all the way with the Lord—it TOPICAL OUTLINE OF would be better not to start. In the truest and THE LESSON fullest sense of the term, half-hearted disciples I. IntroductionA. Follow Me! were not disciples, for unless Christ possessed B. Biblical Background them completely, He did not possess them at all. II. Exposition and Application PROMINENT CHARACTER(S) IN of the Scripture THE LESSON A. Called into the Service of the Master (Mark 1:16-20) Andrew: a native of Bethsaida. He and John B. Th e Demands of Discipleship were Jesus’ fi rst converts. He brought his

brother Peter to Christ. (Luke 14:25-27)

James: the son of Alphaeus. He was called “Th e C. Th e Cost of Discipleship Little,” perhaps because of his height. (Luke 14:28-32)

Simon: later known as Peter; he was a partner in D. Discipleship as Total Surrender the fi shing business with James and John. He (Luke 14:33)

What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus Christ in our day and time? And what does it mean to count the cost of discipleship in our day? What is the cost of Christian discipleship? And are we willing to consider it? How many times have we made a commitment16 | TOWNSEND toPRESS do COMMENTARYsomething only–Spring to 2018 discover later that we bit off more than we could chew? What about those commitments we have made on the spur of a moment only to regret them later when III. Concluding Refl ection to be prepared to leave everything behind we actually have to show up and do what we and make their commitment to Jesus as promised we would do? Jesus is urging all complete and all-consuming as Jesus’ own who would follow Him to count the cost of devotion to His mission. These sayings are what it means to be one of His disciples. addressed to the large crowds following Unlike some contemporary preachers who Jesus. Their intent is to urge persons who are make it sound easy to be a follower of Christ, seeking to be disciples to consider first the Jesus actually did lay down some tough demands of discipleship. Rather than trying guidelines for people to follow. In fact, He to lure the unsuspecting into unconsidered urged us to count the cost before we say yes commitments, Jesus warned the crowd in to following Him. advance that the way of discipleship would not be easy. The three conditions laid down B. Biblical Background in this sequence of pronouncements are In our lesson today, Luke returned to the these: renouncing family ties that would journey motif. Because Jesus faced prevent one from being a disciple; bearing martyrdom in Jerusalem, His followers had one’s cross; and forsaking possessions. A. Called into the Service of the Master foot. The first to be called were Simon and

II. EXPOSITION AND APPLICATION OF THE SCRIPTURE (Mark 1:16-20) Andrew, his brother; then James and John, Now as he walked by the , he both sons of Zebedee. The narrative does saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a not tell us any more about these characters net into the sea: for they were fishers. And for now, except for the fact that they were Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and fishermen. I will make you to become . The striking fact is that in all these call And straightway they forsook their nets, and narratives, Jesus kept the initiative. He was followed him. And when he had gone a little farther thence, he saw James the son of the one who spotted the fishermen and Zebedee, and John his brother, who also called them while they were busy with their were in the ship mending their nets. And daily tasks. He was the one who set down the straightway he called them: and they left rules and requirements of discipleship. Jesus’ their father Zebedee in the ship with the manner is close to that of the of hired servants, and went after him. Yahweh’s, who chose Moses when he was From the beginning of this first part of busy pasturing his little flock (see Exodus Mark’s gospel, Jesus appeared as an itinerant 3:1-2), or Gideon, who was busy threshing constantly on the move (verse 16). To wheat (see Judges 6:11-12). It is also close to accompany Him does not therefore issue in that of the prophet Elijah’s, who threw his the entry into a school, but it comes down to mantle onto Elisha while he was working adopting a kind of itinerant lifestyle just like (see 1 Kings 19:19). His, which consists of unending travel on Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 17 The purpose of the call of the first also reminds us that we too are called by disciples is only clarified through a metaphor: Jesus to obey the same command. “I will cause you to become fishers of people” (see Mark 1:17). Unknown as such B. The Demands of in the Old Testament or in rabbinic Discipleship (Luke 14:25- literature, the expression “fishers of people” 27) is probably nothing other than a play on And there went great multitudes with him: words; instead of fishing for fish, you will and he turned, and said unto them, If any now fish for people! Jesus did not ask man come to me, and hate not his father, anything else of those He called other than and mother, and wife, and children, and for them to follow Him. The abandonment brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And of their trade and their tools flowed from whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come their adherence to Jesus, the itinerant (one after me, cannot be my disciple. who stays in a place for only a short amount Here, Jesus again addressed the crowds of time). about discipleship. In verses 26-33, there are James and John—the sons of Zebedee three challenges to discipleship that end with (verse 19)—together with Peter, formed the a common refrain: “cannot be my disciple.” group of disciples mentioned most often by These three verses refer to three kinds of Mark, and apparently were the closest to sacrifice that disciples must be willing to Jesus. James and John’s response to Jesus’ make. Jesus had already talked about these call was as immediate as that of the first two three issues, but here His language was very disciples Peter and Andrew: they severed sharp; for hating one’s family, carrying one’s their family ties and left their father, cross, and taking leave of all of one’s Zebedee, in the boat with the hired men. The possessions are made explicit conditions of reference to “hired men” (verse 20) indicates discipleship. In the early church, the that the brothers were by no means poor travelling missionaries were most likely to men. They were willing to leave all to follow make these sacrifices, but the believers who Jesus. The description of their immediate stayed at home might face circumstances in response to the summons of Jesus conveyed which these demands would be made of vividly the authority and power which He them as well. exercised. Mark does not tell us whether There are a number of seeming anti- these men had already met or heard of Jesus. family sayings in Luke’s gospel. However, the The impression given by Mark, however, is demand in verse 26 that one “hate” one’s that the personality and authority of Jesus family is perhaps the strongest. In the ancient were such that the four men responded to world, the terms love and hate referred less to His call at their first meeting. By telling the emotions than to behavior. To hate was a story in this way, Mark not only impresses Semitic expression that conveyed his readers with the authority of Jesus, but indifference to one and preference for

18 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 another. The word hate is intended to convey yet a great way off, he sendeth an the inestimable worth of a choice, not a ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. malicious motive of a choice. The point of In Luke 14:28-32, Jesus made a simple verse 26 is that good things— even things observation. A prudent person would not created and commended by God, such as begin a project until being sure it can be father and mother and the honor due finished. A man would not lay the them—cannot be given precedence over foundation for a tower unless he was sure he Jesus. When the good rivals the best, then it could finish it (verses 2830). A king would must be hated. The saying reflects the reality not go to war unless he had enough soldiers of many first-century disciples, whose choice to defeat the opposing force. Similarly, God to follow Jesus alienated families. has not entered a redemptive process The metaphor of bearing one’s cross in without being prepared to complete it, and verse 27 connotes the process of following Jesus did not set His face for Jerusalem Jesus through daily trials. What is sought without being prepared to face the sacrifice after here is some understanding of that would be required of Him there. Thus, constancy and steadfastness in following no one should step forward as a disciple Jesus. In the words of the Book of Common without being prepared to forsake everything Prayer, our commitment to following Christ for the sake of following Jesus. is not something that we should enter into The two move from the lesser to lightly or unadvisedly, but deliberately and in the greater consequence. In the first, the the fear of God. This deeply held threat is merely that one may be embarrassed commitment is also captured in one of the before one’s neighbors. In the second, the great hymns of the church: “I’m going consequence may be defeat at the hands of through, and I’ll pay the price whatever an enemy. The parable does not advocate others do.” building stronger armies; it illustrates the folly of one’s embarking on a venture C. The Cost of Discipleship without being sure he/she can see it through (Luke 14:28-32) to completion. Both questions are intended For which of you, intending to build a tower, to elicit agreement from the audience sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, because the answers are obvious; no one whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest among us would do anything this imprudent. haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and The obvious answers also draw in the entire is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin audience, for if they answer the questions to mock him, Saying, This man began to correctly, it helps them to see that they were build, and was not able to finish. Or what king, going to make war against another king, all potential disciples if they were willing to sitteth not down first, and consulteth make the radical commitment that Jesus whether he be able with ten thousand to required. In effect, Jesus was saying that a meet him that cometh against him with person who is willing to count the cost and twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is pay the price can be one of His disciples. Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 19 However, we should not say yes without German theologian and martyr Dietrich seriously pondering the consequences of Bonhoeffer captured Christ’s stark demands what a “yes” to Jesus will mean in our lives. for discipleship in this oft-repeated saying: “The cross is laid on every Christian. [It D. Discipleship as Total begins with] the call to abandon the Surrender (Luke 14:33) attachments of this world. . . . When Christ So likewise, whosoever he be of you that calls a [human being], he bids him come and forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be die.” This radical obedience and absolute my disciple. allegiance to Jesus may sound harsh and Luke added the remark about getting rid impossible to most contemporary Christians of one’s possessions to these two parables in the West. Yet, the history of the church is and thus brought them into line with his filled with those who have heard this call and overall concern about attachment to responded with utter abandon. Martyrs like possessions and how it is a hindrance to Polycarp and Perpetua laid down their lives, becoming Jesus’ disciple and entering the refusing the plea of family kingdom of God. The building of the tower required the ability to commit all of one’s HOME DAILY BIBLE READINGS wealth to the project. In like manner, (March 4-10, 2019) preparing for war and suing for peace required one’s honest assessment of his or A Costly Call her ability to withstand the superior force, and friends to renounce their faith. Saints just as the attraction of wealth is a superior like Francis rejected worldly comforts for a force for working against discipleship and life of Christian discipline. This is our story entry into the kingdom. and our calling too. However, we are prone If one is truly to join Jesus on this journey, to lose the edge of our commitment; we are then that person must say farewell to all he vulnerable to let other distractions erode our or she has (verse 33). This “leaving behind” allegiance to Christ. is cast in the present tense, demarcating this Discipleship consists of both giving and condition not simply as a potential for receiving. Not all are called to the same form which disciples must be constantly ready, of discipleship at all times. However, but as characteristic of the disciple. The whatever form the call takes, all are called to disciples of Jesus must put aside all Jesus absolutely and without reserve. competing securities in order that they Discipleship cannot be an expression of might refashion their lives and identity mere civil religion. It does not confuse the according to the norms of the kingdom of Gospel with ideologies or cultural norms, God. nor does it tailor the Gospel to our preferences and causes—even the most III. CONCLUDING REFLECTION noble. It is the forsaking of all for Jesus.

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PRAYER the strength to say yes to a life of dedicated Teach us Thy way, O Lord. Illumine our hearts and commitment to Your will and to Your way. In Jesus’ minds so that we may know the cost of what it means name we pray. Amen. truly to follow You. Then we pray You would give us MONDAY, March 4: “Answering the Lord’s Call of Discipleship” (Mark 4:10-20) TUESDAY, March 5: “It’s Hard to Enter the Kingdom” (Mark 10:23-31) WEDNESDAY, March 6: “The Lord’s Call and Family Conflict” (:34-39) THURSDAY, March 7: “The Father Honors Those Who Follow” (John 12:20-26) FRIDAY, March 8: “Suffering and Knowing Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:7-16) SATURDAY, March 9: “Faithful Witness through Suffering” (2 Corinthians 6:1-10) SUNDAY, March 10: “Counting the Cost, Answering the Call” (Mark 1:16-20; Luke 14:25-33)

CALLING THE LOST ADULT/YOUTH CHILDREN ADULT/YOUNG ADULT TOPIC: Lost and Found GENERAL LESSON TITLE: Jesus Calls the Lost YOUTH TOPIC: Lost and Found CHILDREN’S TOPIC: He’s Looking for You!

DEVOTIONAL READING Ezekiel 34:11-16

ADULT/YOUTH BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Luke 15 PRINT PASSAGE: Luke 15:11-24 PRINT PASSAGE: Luke 15:11-24 KEY VERSES: Luke 15:22a, 24 KEY VERSES: Luke 15:22, 24 CHILDREN Luke 15:11-24—KJV 13 And not many days after the younger son 11 And he said, A certain man had two sons: gathered all together, and took his journey into 12 And the younger of them said to his father, a far country, and there wasted his substance Father, give me the portion of goods that with riotous living. 14 And when he had spent falleth to me. And he divided unto them his all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; living. and he began to be in want. 15 And he went Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 21 and joined himself to a citizen of that country; 18 “‘I will set out and go back to my father and and he sent him into his fi elds to feed swine. say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven 16 And he would fain have fi lled his belly with and against you. the husks that the swine did eat: and no man 20 And he arose, and came to his father. But gave unto him. 17 And when he came to when he was yet a great way off , his father saw himself, he said, How many hired servants of him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on my father’s have bread enough and to spare, his neck, and kissed him. and I perish with hunger! 21 And the son said unto him, Father, I 18 I will arise and go to my father, and will have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and say unto him, Father, I have sinned against am no more worthy to be called thy son. heaven, and before thee, 22 But the father said to his servants, Bring 19 And am no more worthy to be called thy forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a son: make me as one of thy hired servants. ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: Luke 15:11-24—NIV 23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: 11 Jesus continued: “Th ere was a man who had two sons. 24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began 12 “The younger one said to his father, to be merry. ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. 19 “‘I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 13 “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country 20 “So he got up and went to his father. But and there squandered his wealth in wild living. while he was still a long way off , his father saw him and was fi lled with compassion for him; he 14 “After he had spent everything, there was ran to his son, threw his arms around him and a severe famine in that whole country, and he kissed him. began to be in need. 21 “Th e son said to him, ‘Father, I have 15 “So he went and hired himself out to a sinned against heaven and against you. I am no citizen of that country, who sent him to his fi elds longer worthy to be called your son.’ to feed pigs. 16 “He longed to fi ll his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no 22 “But the father said to his servants, one gave him anything. 17 “When he came to his ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired Put a ring on his fi nger and sandals on his feet. servants have food to spare, and here I am 23 “‘Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s starving to death! have a feast and celebrate.

22 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 24 “‘For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.’” sinfulness, but on the son’s repentance and UNIFYING LESSON PRINCIPLE: In our world, it is easy for people to lose their way. What is our responsibility to those who go astray? Jesus taught that those who are lost are loved by God and are to be valued, searched for, and welcomed back when they return.

LESSON OBJECTIVES Upon the completion of this lesson, the students will be able to do the following: 1. Identify whom in contemporary life might be illustrated by the characters in the parable. 2. Sense God’s grief over God’s lost children as the father grieved over the lost son before the son’s return. 3. Suggest a culturally appropriate means by which new converts can be rejoiced over as the father rejoiced over the returning son. return, and the condition of the father’s heart. —Jesus shows that God’s love is all-embracing, unconditional, and seems to overfl ow for AGE-LEVEL POINTS TO BE repentant sinners. EMPHASIZED —In the parable of today’s lesson, the father Teachers of ADULTS and YOUTH does not search for the younger son; the son —Jesus’ welcoming sinners and the criticism He comes back on his own. But in the two received for it (see Luke 15:1-2) provide the preceding parables, the shepherd searches for context of this parable. the lost sheep and the woman searches for the —Th e mercy of the loving father is not lost coin. dependent on some measure of the son’s

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 23 —Th e sense that Jesus suggested of God’s Son—it is more accurately a parable about a grieving over His lost children as the father over the lost son is a characteristic displayed —The robe, the ring, and the feast were symbols throughout the Hebrew Bible, where God of the celebration of the father’s love for his always was aggrieved over Israel’s going astray son. or acts of disobedience (see Jeremiah, Isaiah, Teachers of CHILDREN other prophets). —People ask God to give them what they want —The son insulted the father by asking for his rather than what they need. inheritance before the father died. —Forgiveness is an important ingredient in a —The son shamed himself and his father by sinner’s healing process. wasting his money on dissolute living. —Parents, in an attempt to support their children’s —It violated Jewish laws to eat “unclean” animals dreams, may enable their destruction. such as swine. —Loving parents rejoice and welcome their children back to the fold after they have gone —The son realized that his disrespectful behavior astray.

affected his family. —Jesus commands faith communities to welcome —The father demonstrated unconditional love by erring members and rejoice when they return running to meet his lost son. to the fold.

grieved THE CHRONOLOGICAL father who had two sons. SETTING OF THE LESSON During the time of Jesus’ ministry, there THE GEOGRAPHICAL AND were many parables He told to various audiences. CULTURAL SETTING OF THE In Luke 15, the third parable Jesus told is LESSON probably the best known of all three. From two brief parables about the Throughout the church’s history, it has been celebration of the lost and found—sheep and admired and found helpful by countless people, coins—Jesus turned to a more extended account even being the subject of religious art. It is full of of a lost and found son. To be sure, the stakes profound insights into human beings and the were significantly raised in this instance: the son way repentance and salvation work in human lost was one of only two, compared with the one experience. It proves that Jesus was a master sheep of a hundred and one coin of ten in verses storyteller and perfectly understood the entire 3-10. The fact that today’s lesson speaks of one human condition. Although the parable has been of two sons contributes to the intrinsic interest strongly connected with one son—the Prodigal of the narrative as well as to its dramatic appeal.

24 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 The point at which this third parable there is a “prodigal inclination” in many people; advances significantly beyond the framework of thus, we can all identify with him. the earlier two is in its heightened attention to issues of kinship. As valuable as sheep and coins KEY TERMS IN THE LESSON might be to a person, the loss and recovery of a Famine (verse 14)—Greek: limos (lē-mo’s): son or daughter are of even greater importance. scarcity of harvest. Critical to the development of this parable is how Journey (verse 13)—Greek: apodēmeō (ä-po- this loss and recovery are signified in familial dāSinned (verse 21)—Greek: hamartanō (hä- terms. A younger son acknowledged his father as märtä’-nō): wandered from the law of God; such but acted toward him in ways that were out of character, according to normal canons of violated God’s law. familial behavior. This led eventually to his Squandered (verse 13)—Greek: diaskorpizō attempt to reframe their relationship as one of (dē-ä-skor-pē’-zō): scattered abroad; dispersed; master and hired hand (see Luke 15:19)—a “wasted” (KJV). definition at odds with his father’s persistence in continuing to recognize him as a member of the TOPICAL OUTLINE OF family. It is worth recalling that a primary image THE LESSON of God in the Lukan travel narrative has been I. Introduction God as Father, a portrait continued in this A. Helping the Lost to Find Th eir Way parable. B. Biblical Background

PROMINENT CHARACTER(S) IN II. Exposition and Application THE LESSON of the Scripture Th e Father: Th e father in this story/parable is A. A Premature Demand and an Untimely not named in order for us to see the Departure characteristics of this father which mirror the (Luke 15:11-13a) characteristics of God toward those who stray. B. High Living and Wasteful Spending Th e Prodigal Son: It can be speculated that this Prodigal Son is not named because in a sense me’-ō): to go (travel) into a far country; “set off for a distant country” (NIV). Pigs (verse 15)—Greek: choiros (khoi’-ros): “swine” (KJV). Riotous living (verse 13): living lavishly beyond one’s means; living in a wild manner; “wild living” (Luke 15:13b-14) C. Down but Not Out! (Luke 15:15-19) D. Returning with a Plea for Mercy

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 25 (Luke 15:20-24) showed that he cared more about called to throw open our loving arms to all who (NIV). III. Concluding Refl ection

I. INTRODUCTION A. Helping the Lost to Find Their Way Th e Prodigal S on in today’s lesson models for us what it looks like when people of high promise go astray. Th e loving father in the story models for us what we should do every time we have an opportunity to help people get their lives in order. Sometimes, it is a child who has been coddled and pampered too much who just cannot seem to get his or her act together. Other times it is an absent father, battered by life, who simply could not keep things together long enough to be the loving father that he needed to be to his children. Scripture teaches that we have a responsibility to help those who are struggling to make something of themselves, even when their wounds and hurts are self-infl icted. We too are are struggling to find their way back home. his inheritance than about his father. Nor did he choose to work his part B. Biblical Background of the property. Instead, he asked This is a parable of a father with two sons. for it to be realized as capital, and Normally, Jewish sons would stay with their upon receiving it immediately left fathers and serve under them in the family home. How brokenhearted the business, waiting until they died before inheriting father must have been in the face of a share of the family assets. In this story, the his son’s selfishness and younger son brought forward his claim on his insensitivity. inheritance prematurely, no doubt deeply wounding the father in doing so. His attitude

26 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 The younger son put as much distance cannot get our attention until we between himself and the father as possible by have fallen low enough—the Bible travelling to a country far away from home. By says he came to himself. In addition, choosing a far country, the younger son was when he came to himself he had a choosing the life of a spendthrift over being conversation within himself and guided by the hand of a loving father. He decided that home was the best enjoyed himself in the far country with its place for him. He arose from the

II. EXPOSITION AND APPLICATION OF THE SCRIPTURE A. A Premature Demand and an Untimely comes when the younger son demands— Departure “give me”—his share of the inheritance. In (Luke 15:11-13a) Jesus’ culture, as in our own, land ownership And he said, A certain man had two sons: And was a mark of stability and security. Land the younger of them said to his father, was something to protect and to keep intact, Father, give me the portion of goods that if possible, so that one could pass it along to falleth to me. And he divided unto them his one’s children. The eldest son is supposed to living. And not many days after the younger have a double share of the inheritance, so in son gathered all together, and took his this story he should inherit two-thirds and journey into a far country. his younger brother one-third. Sons did not “There was a man who had two sons” normally demand their inheritance before (verse 11) sets up an expectation that there the death of their father. will be a contrast between the two boys. The first tension

alluring attractions and enticing entertainment, depths of his despair and returned spending his money freely, indulging his senses to the waiting arms of his father. A to the fullest. He was glad to be free of the repentant son and a loving father are restraints and service of living with his father. at the heart of this lesson today. However, the son burned up his whole To ask for one’s inheritance while inheritance just at a time when an economic the father is still alive is the recession was falling on that country. Jobs were equivalent of saying, “I wish you scarce and none of his former friends, so ready were already dead, but since you to share his fortune when he was rich and aren’t, I can’t wait any longer.” The generous, would help him now that he was the father met the son’s impatience with one in need. In survival mode, he hired himself patience and submitted to his out to a local farmer, to do the most menial jobs, request. Impudent, ungrateful, and like feeding pigs. He even reached the point rebellious sons were not unknown in where he envied the pigs because they were the ancient world, but when they eating, and he was not. As he looked down upon appeared, they usually came to a bad those beasts in the pigpen—sometimes God end. This younger son, like so many

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 27 sons and daughters down through the ages, boy had no family or resources on would have to learn the hard way that what you which to fall back (verse 14). Young do to others you will see again in your life. and foolish, he had yet to learn that Moreover, this lesson teaches that the comfort life is filled with unexpectedness. and security of home are often taken for granted Even with the best of planning, life until one leaves home. throws us a curve ball from time to The younger son gathered his earthly time. Had he not spent all, he might belongings and left home abruptly. This, no have been able to ride out the doubt, he did after making a quick deal to get as depressed economy. much cash as he could out of the sale of his inheritance. In a culture where all transactions C. Down but involve lengthy negotiations, and where land Not Out! sales are the most involved of all, “not many (Luke days” is simply too fast to have gotten a good 15:15-19) price. The hard lessons of life are often learned And he went and joined himself to a through the bitter experiences of life. citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. B. High Living and Wasteful Spending And he would fain have filled his (Luke 15:13b-14) belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. and there wasted his substance with riotous And when he came to himself, he living. And when he had spent all, there arose a said, How many hired servants of my mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in father’s have bread enough and to want. spare, and I perish with hunger! I The younger son went to the “far country” will arise and go to my father, and and spent his money by living large (verse 13b). will say unto him, Father, I have “Riotous living” simply means he lived without sinned against heaven, and before control. Thus, the way he lived led to his thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of impoverishment. His folly is a story replayed thy hired servants. many times in the lives of the young, and others Broke, hungry, and away from not so young. The young are expected to climb home, he “hired himself out” as a fool’s hill at least once in their lives; the hope is day laborer to a citizen of that that it will become a lifelong learning experience region (verse 15), who promptly sent for them. The Prodigal Son was a short-sighted him into his fields to feed his pigs. spendthrift who lived only for today with little to The Gentile owner of the pigs no thought about what tomorrow would bring. apparently valued his pigs more than He lived in the moment, thinking the he did the Prodigal Son who was provisions from his father’s particular grace looking after them. The Scriptures would last forever. And then reality kicked in. say the younger son would gladly When he had spent all, a famine came, and the 28 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 have filled his belly with what he was feeding to sight, and am no more worthy to be the pigs—the sweet pulp of the carob tree (verse called thy son. But the father said to 16). At this point in his life, the boy is poor, his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a separated from his family, separated from his ring on his hand, and shoes on his faith, and starving far from home. He is so feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, hungry that he would have eaten the pig’s food if and kill it; and let us eat, and be he could. The last part of verse 16 finds him at merry: For this my son was dead, the bottom of the pit, and Jesus says, “And no and is alive again; he was lost, and is one gave him anything.” He got there by found. And they began to be merry. demanding everything that was coming to him Having left his family, and, in fact, he got it all, and it turned out to be abandoned his religious heritage, lost far more than he expected. his integrity, and now with his very The expression “came to himself” in verse 17 existence threatened with starvation, is a literal translation; it is used in other texts to the Prodigal Son came to his senses. mean something like coming to one’s senses, He decided to return home hoping especially when one has been under a delusion. to be accepted back, not as a son, The boy thought over his situation and decided but as a servant. Like many who he could do better than the situation he was in: come to the point where they want “How many of my father’s hired workers have to reconnect with injured family more than enough food, while I am here members and repair estranged perishing from hunger!” (see verse 17). Did he relationships, the wasteful son truly repent? On the positive side, he said the practiced his speech—hoping to right words and walked in the right direction—“I find the right words to achieve his will arise and go to my father” (verse 18). He had goal. The rest depended on his sinned against God and against his father, and he father. While he was still a long way had started home to face the person he off, his waiting father was overjoyed dishonored and damaged by leaving. He is to be to see him. The father’s unwavering given credit for coming to himself and returning expectation reflected how much home to his father. How deep his repentance hope he still had for his son’s return. runs will only become clear from what he does When the son finally came into after being received so generously by his father. view, the father was filled with compassion. He ran to meet him, D. Returning with a Plea for embraced him, and kissed him Mercy (Luke 15:20-24) (verse 21). Without reprimand, And he arose, and came to his father. But when indignation, or anger, the father he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, received him back as a son. Before and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his the disgraced son could even finish neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, his prepared speech, the father Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy interrupted him and proceeded to Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 29 honor him with gifts and plans and grand people discover for themselves the celebrations. harsh realities of trying to succeed in Just as the younger son represents the a fallen and sometimes unfriendly wanderlust and sin in every heart, the father world. Once out of represents the God and Father of Jesus in His patience and love for all men and women who HOME DAILY BIBLE have gone astray in their lives. Like God, the READINGS father in this parable had never forgotten his (March 11-17, 2019) erring son. As a result, the moment his son appeared on the horizon, the father immediately Calling the Lost ran to welcome him back home, not in blessing range, they truly come to reproachful coldness, but with the warmest understand Tina Turner’s famous reunion. Not with “I told you so,” but with “this question, “What’s love got to do my son was dead, and is alive again” (verse 24). with it?” This is a truly wonderful representation of the The Prodigal Son is everyone’s love of God for the world, and especially for all story to some degree, whether we who come home again. It is also our model for have lived far away from God or the way in which we are to be reconciled to one not. The truth be told, no one has to another and how we are to give aid and succor to travel over the miles to be in a far one another when we have not lived up to all country. It is not distance that that we could and should be. separates us from God; it is spiritual alienation. Whenever we leave the III. CONCLUDING REFLECTION loving arms of the Father and those who love us, we are in a far country, A son left home, enticed by the false and that far country can be just up promises of his world. How attractive the far the street or no farther than the country of the world appears when people first other side of town. Alienation set out for it, often when they are young and in respects no distance, but love knows pursuit of their dreams and promised pleasures. no bounds. The loving Father They begin by celebrating with other kindred represented in this parable, as well as spirits, exhilarating in the freedom of being their in our lives, is eagerly awaiting all own person and following their own illusions, who have become alienated and free from the moral restraints of family, church, estranged from Him. and community. Many young people in the world today share in the outlook and behavior of the PRAYER Prodigal Son. They desire to choose their own Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your paths and experience the different options that unconditional steadfast love. In trying days the world has to offer. However, boom times when our own selfish wills and misguided never last, dreams fade, friends desert, and desires separate us from You, please do not 30 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 leave us or forsake us. Help us to meet the people we need back to Your loving arms. In Jesus’ name to meet on our way in life, and give us the confident we pray. Amen. assurance that we can always turn from our sins and come MONDAY, March 11: “Transformed by Christ into New Life” (Ephesians 2:1-10) TUESDAY, March 12: “God Seeks the Scattered People” (Ezekiel 34:11-16) WEDNESDAY, March 13: “God’s Compassion for Straying People” (Hosea 11:1-4, 8-9) THURSDAY, March 14: “Calling Sinners to Repentance” (:12-13; 5:27-32) FRIDAY, March 15: “Finding the Lost Sheep and Coin” (Luke 15:1 -10) SATURDAY, March 16: “A Plea for Understanding and Recognition” (Luke 15:25-32) SUNDAY, March 17: “Family Members—Forgiven and Reconciled” (Luke 15:11-24) March 24, 2019 Lesson 4

CALLING TO SALVATION ADULT/YOUTH CHILDREN ADULT/YOUNG ADULT TOPIC: Finding Acceptance GENERAL LESSON TITLE: Jesus Calls the Lost to YOUTH TOPIC: Responding to the Call Salvation CHILDREN’S TOPIC: Jesus Saves Me

DEVOTIONAL READING 1 Chronicles 16:8-13, 23-27

ADULT/YOUTH BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: :1-10 BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Luke 19:1-10 PRINT PASSAGE: Luke 19:1-10 PRINT PASSAGE: Luke 19:1-10 KEY VERSE: Luke 19:10 KEY VERSE: Luke 19:10 CHILDREN Luke 19:1-10—KJV a sycamore tree to see him: for he was to pass AND JESUS entered and passed through Jericho. that way. 2 And, behold, there was a man named 5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, publicans, and he was rich. make haste, and come down; for today I must 3 And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and abide at thy house. 6 And he made haste, and could not for the press, because he was little of came down, and received him joyfully. stature. 4 And he ran before, and climbed up into 7 And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, Th at he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 31 9 And Jesus said unto him, Th is day is salvation come 9 Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham. house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that 10 “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the which was lost. lost.”

UNIFYING LESSON PRINCIPLE: Some people can be considered unacceptable, either because of their actions or because of stereotypes held by others. How does one fi nd acceptance? Jesus recognized Zacchaeus’s interest and honored him despite the grumbling of the crowd; Zacchaeus responded with overwhelming repentance.

LESSON OBJECTIVES Upon the completion of this lesson, the students will be able to do the following: 1. Tell how Zacchaeus and Jesus ignored social taboos and how that resulted in new life for Zacchaeus. 2. Repent of sinful attitudes the learner may have held toward certain kinds of people. 3. Challenge the social or cultural stereotypes of people diff erent from themselves and to make an eff ort 8 And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the 8 But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold. anybody out of anything, I will pay back four Luke 19:1-10—NIV times the amount.” JESUS ENTERED Jericho and was passing to share Christ’s love with others. through. 2 A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was AGE-LEVEL POINTS TO BE wealthy. 3 He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the EMPHASIZED crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a Teachers of ADULTS and YOUTH sycamore-fi g tree to see him, since Jesus was —Hospitality was a strong practice in Israelite coming that way. 5 When Jesus reached the spot, culture. Jewish religious traditions also he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come adhered to strong boundaries concerning who down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” was acceptable and who was not. Tax 6 So he came down at once and welcomed him collectors, though Jewish, were considered to gladly. 7 All the people saw this and began to be collaborators with the Roman government, mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a and therefore were treated as Gentiles. sinner.” —Jesus cared fi rst about developing a relationship with Zacchaeus. Jesus did not tell

32 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 Zacchaeus what to do about his career choice custom taxes. or the way he handled his aff airs. —Th e sycamore tree was like a fi g tree and easy —Th is incident is an example of Jesus’ tendency to climb. to challenge the social or cultural stereotypes —Zacchaeus desired to see Jesus because he and religious stigmas of the times; other thought Jesus was important. Teachers of examples include the story of the woman at CHILDREN the well in (see John 4:7-29), His —A close encounter with Jesus will change lives. encounter with the woman caught in adultery —Jesus proved that He is an all-inclusive Savior (see John 8:1-11), and the healing of the man who transforms the lives of sinners. born blind (see John 9:1-41). —Our bodies are holy temples, houses into —Zacchaeus’s example shows that benefactors/ which Jesus is awaiting our acceptance of His participants in oppressive systems can change invitation to enter our hearts. in the face of Jesus’ grace and love. —Salvation causes those with grateful hearts to —Tax collectors for the Roman government willingly make restorations to others above were not well liked in Jewish society. and beyond what is due. —A chief tax collector had other tax collectors —Tax collectors for the Roman government under him and contracted for sales and were not well liked in Jewish society. —Zacchaeus desired to see Jesus because He thought He was important. THE CHRONOLOGICAL SETTING OF Romans were assumed to be dishonest and were hated by other Jews for their complicity with the

THE LESSON despised Roman government. Luke’s account of Jesus’ entering the house of Zacchaeus is the last of Jesus’ encounters with outcasts before His entry into Jerusalem. Earlier, THE GEOGRAPHICAL AND Jesus was mocked as a friend of tax collectors CULTURAL SETTING OF THE and sinners (see :34). In Luke’s gospel, tax LESSON collectors functioned as the typical outcasts, From the start, Zacchaeus’s occupation and those whom Jesus befriended. Roman officials, socioeconomic status paint a negative picture of charged with the responsibility of collecting taxes him for the first hearers of this story. He held the throughout their region, contracted with local position of tax collector in Jericho, a much- entrepreneurs to collect the prescribed taxes, despised occupation in . The custom of the tolls, tariffs, and customs fees in a given area. day held that whenever a tax collector entered a These entrepreneurs, the “chief tax collectors,” house all that was within it became unclean. This were required to pay the contract in advance. negative characterization of the position of tax They would then employ others to collect the collector was also found in other first-century taxes with the hope that the amount collected witnesses. Repeatedly in the book of Luke, tax would yield a profit. The system was open to collectors are coupled with the generic category abuse, and Jews who collected taxes for the of “sinners.” The epithet “rich” would also have

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 33 been perceived negatively by the crowd in Abide (verse 5)—Greek: menō (me’-nō): to Jericho, since Zacchaeus’s wealth would have remain; to tarry; “stay” (NIV). been interpreted as something he most likely Publican (verse 2)—Greek: architelōnēs (är- gained at the expense of others. His ill-gotten khēte-lō’-nās): “tax collector” (NIV). Sought wealth would also have served as an important (verse 3)—Greek: zēteō (zā-te’-ō): sought (in impediment to his salvation. order to fi nd out) by thinking, meditating, The third descriptor of Zacchaeus would reasoning; enquired into; “wanted” (NIV). also have been perceived as a negative quality: his Sycamore (verse 4)—Greek: sykomorea (sü- diminished height. Why mention that Zacchaeus ko- was short in stature? In ancient cultures, mo-re’-ä): Th e biblical sycamore tree is a fi g smallness in physical stature was generally seen as tree. It is a strong, wide-spreading tree standing reflective of “smallness in spirit.” Conversely, 30-40 feet tall. greatness of soul was associated with great physical stature. The widespread appeal to TOPICAL OUTLINE OF physical characteristics in that day suggests that the diminished stature of Zacchaeus would have THE LESSON been viewed as a laughable, perhaps despicable, I. Introduction character. It was thus a bold move on Jesus’ part A. Th e Priority of Saving the Lost to invite Himself into the home of such a man. B. Biblical Background However, Jesus demonstrated with His invitation that just because Zacchaeus was a despised tax collector did not mean that he was to be I. INTRODUCTION excluded from the family of God. This parable A. The Priority of Saving functions to identify faith in improbable places the Lost among improbable people. Despised Zacchaeus trusted not in who he was but in who God II. Exposition and Application was—the merciful one. For Luke, salvation by of the Scripture grace means that one can never feel religiously A. An Encounter with Destiny superior to another. (Luke 19:1-4) B. A Divine Invitation PROMINENT CHARACTER(S) IN (Luke 19:5-6) THE LESSON C. A Hostile Crowd and a Generous Publicans: Jewish tax collectors for the ancient Response to God’s Saving Purpose Romans; regarded as outcasts and traitors among (Luke 19:7-8) the Jews for having accepted such a position. Zacchaeus: a chief tax collector in Jericho D. A Son of Abraham whose encounter with Jesus led to his salvation. (Luke 19:9-10)

KEY TERMS IN THE LESSON

34 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 III. Concluding Refl ection

James Truslow Adam’s famous quote seems most fi tting for today’s lesson: “Th ere is so much good in the worst of us, and so much bad in the best of us, that it ill behooves any of us to fi nd fault with the rest of us.” Jesus invited Himself into the home of Zacchaeus, a despised tax collector, known for cheating the local citizenry out of its money. One would expect this to be the last place for Jesus to spend His time in the closing days of His ministry. However, Zacchaeus is just the kind of person Jesus came into the world to save. Th us, Jesus is all too willing to lay aside custom and taboo and spend quality time with this man who has lots of bad about him, but also some good in him. Jesus does not give priority to that which is dark and sinful in Zacchaeus’s life; instead, He focused on the hope of salvation that He brought to Zacchaeus on the day of their meeting. Zacchaeus responded to the Master’s gracious visit by confessing his sins and promising to make restitution to all those he had dealt with unfairly in his past. Zacchaeus responded to Christ’s off er of grace and came out of his house a changed man. Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus is instructive for our faith today. We too are called upon to reach out to the lost and misguided in the name of Jesus Christ. Judgment of others belongs to God alone. Ours is to reach out in love to those who are lost and make every eff ort to lead them to the newness of life that can only be found in having a divine encounter with Christ Jesus. B. Biblical Background Many see this story as the heart of Luke’s presentation of the mission of Jesus Christ.

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 35 Many of Luke’s favorite themes are present professional work and to make a clean start in this story, such as the compassion of God, by promising compensations to those he had sin, repentance, and human recovery. The wronged. Jesus responded in kind by whole story makes for captivating reading, all declaring that God’s salvation had come to the more so because it is true. Jesus appears Zacchaeus’s household. Zacchaeus was an here in His most attractive role as the example of those lost men and women Jesus gracious Redeemer of lost women and men. as the Son of Man had come to seek and to The story is simply told: A very rich tax save. This is one of the best-loved and most collector name Zacchaeus has heard that moving stories of the . It Jesus from Nazareth was heading through sums up many of the most valuable lessons Jericho. Intrigued by what he had heard of salvation and the kingdom. It shows that about this travelling rabbi, Zacchaeus ran Jesus continues to attract the interest of ahead of the crowd and climbed a sycamore many people who are searching for answers tree (an easy task because of its low to life’s deepest questions and dilemmas. In branches). Zacchaeus was a small man and addition, Jesus’ taking the initiative to invite wanted a better vantage point to see Jesus. Himself to Zacchaeus’s house demonstrates

II. EXPOSITION AND APPLICATION OF THE SCRIPTURE A. An Encounter with Destiny Jericho. Zacchaeus was no tax underling like (Luke 19:1-4) Levi (see :27); he was a man of AND JESUS entered and passed through considerable wealth. The Romans auctioned Jericho. And, behold, there was a man named off the collection of indirect taxes (tolls, Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the tariffs, and customs) to the highest bidders, publicans, and he was rich. And he sought to which may have been an individual or a see Jesus who he was; and could not for the group of individuals. By farming out the press, because he was little of stature. And he collection of these taxes, the Roman ran before, and climbed up into a sycamore governor could count on receiving a fixed tree to see him: for he was to pass that way. sum from the beginning of the year and thus This encounter with Zacchaeus took place reduce overhead expenses. while Jesus was passing through the town of

To his and everyone’s surprise, Jesus halted the truth that God seeks us out, even when right under where Zacchaeus was watching we are not looking for Him. God pursues us and invited him down so that he could in His love for us through Jesus Christ. entertain Jesus at his house. Gladly, The fact that Zacchaeus held one of the Zacchaeus opened his home and hospitality most despised of professions in that day did to Jesus. The visit of Jesus brought an not seem to bother Jesus. In His contact occasion of deep soul searching and change with Zacchaeus, Jesus demonstrates that of heart for Zacchaeus. He used the occasion God is no respecter of persons and that to confess his past corruption in his nothing can separate us from the love of

36 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 God in Christ Jesus. Even though we may be As Jesus passed through Jericho with the among the greatest of sinners, when we crowds surrounding Him, Zacchaeus wanted repent of our sins and turn to God, He is to know who He was, so he ran ahead and faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. who was about to pass that way. Although Because the tariffs were unfixed, this Zacchaeus was set to see Jesus, Jesus saw arrangement opened the door to fraud and him first and addressed him by name— abuse. The tax collector who won the right almost the same name, and evidently the to collect the taxes for the Roman same power with which the angel addressed government could charge whatever he Zechariah in the opening theophany of the wanted in order to cover expenses and make gospel (see :13): “Zacchaeus, make a profit, but he would also have to bear any haste, and come down; for today I must losses. abide at thy house” (verse 5). This is the only The term chief tax collector appears only here instance in the Gospels in which Jesus in the book of Luke. Zacchaeus was rich, invited Himself into another person’s presumably because he has raked in big presence or premises. payoffs, as Jericho was a significant import A self-invitation was not the norm in and export post. As a chief tax collector and Judaism and verged on impropriety, but a wealthy man, he represented the chieftain Jesus undoubtedly felt the occasion merited of sinners. Luke does not earmark wealth as such an invitation. The injunction to “make categorically evil, but it poses a danger to haste, and come down” is urgent; the call of discipleship that cannot be minimized. Jesus is not to be put off to a future time, but Despite his riches, Zacchaeus remained on acted on today. Zacchaeus was a man of the margins of society—disdained, if not reputation, wealth, and power, but Jesus hated, as a despicable, greedy, and laughable appealed to his person rather than his titles character. Classed with murderers and or offices. Zacchaeus came down at once robbers, tax collectors were hated in the and welcomed Jesus “joyfully.” This sentence Jewish world. Jesus, knowing all of this about (verse 6) has only seven words in Greek, four Jewish culture, called out to him with an of which are strong verbs, translated invitation. “hurried,” “came down,” “received,” and “rejoiced.” Zacchaeus heard Jesus’ unusual B. A Divine Invitation invitation not as a judgment but as an (Luke 19:5-6) occasion for joy—a very unusual response of And when Jesus came to the place, he looked a tax collector to a meeting with a Jewish up, and saw him, and said unto him, rabbi! Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for Hearing about his position and wealth, today I must abide at thy house. And he the readers’ first reaction to him would made haste, and came down, and received probably be negative. However, a fuller him joyfully. Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 37 picture of Zacchaeus gives rise to a more (verse 8). Rising to his own defense, sympathetic response. He was a short guy Zacchaeus answered the critics by pledging who decided to run ahead so that he could concrete actions as a sign of his conversion. see Jesus. His energetic, enthusiastic This restoration was far more than the law response inspired others to overcome required. His gracious act went beyond mere obstacles in their quest to encounter God’s legalism. It indicates that Zacchaeus was a prophet. Unlike the rich young ruler in Luke changed man. 18:18-23 who walked away from Jesus Those who grumbled about Jesus’ sorrowful, wealthy Zacchaeus responded to entering the home of Zacchaeus seemed Jesus differently and shows us that a rich unaware of the reason for which Jesus came man can be saved despite the encumbrances into the world. He came to call sinners to and false security that wealth often brings. repentance, and He was always ready to C. A Hostile Crowd and a Generous extend a measure of grace to those who Response to God’s Saving Purpose expressed a willingness and a desire to draw (Luke 19:7-8) closer to God. That is exactly the work we And when they saw it, they all murmured, are called to do in our day—invite women saying, That he was gone to be guest with a and men to come to Christ and live life as it man that is a sinner. And Zacchaeus stood, is meant to be lived in the presence of God and said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half almighty. of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false D. A Son of Abraham accusation, I restore him fourfold. (Luke 19:9-10) Throughout Scripture, one sees an And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation unwillingness on the part of some to accept come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a the fact that the sovereign God will save any son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come and all who trust in His name—rich and to seek and to save that which was lost. poor alike. As has happened before in Luke’s Jesus recognized the change in story, those who saw Jesus heading to the Zacchaeus when He said, “This day is home of Zacchaeus could not tolerate the salvation come to this house, forasmuch as Master’s association with sinners, and so they he also is a son of Abraham” (verse 9). “murmured,” saying that Jesus had gone to Zacchaeus might have been despised by his be a guest of a man who is a sinner. neighbors, but his profession had not However, a different scene was transpiring cancelled his birthright. He was not so low within the house. The grace of Jesus evoked that he could not respond to the grace of a transformation within Zacchaeus; he stood God. When was Zacchaeus actually saved? and faced Jesus as he vowed, “Behold, Lord, While he was in the tree? Between the limb the half of my goods I give to the poor; and and the ground? In his house? Who can say? if I have taken any thing from any man by However, saved he was. For that day, false accusation, I restore him fourfold” according to Jesus, salvation came to his

38 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 house— for only salvation could produce really satisfies the deepest longing of the such a change in Zacchaeus. The people human heart? Many paths have been tried, were quite angry that Jesus could show such some running after great wealth, increased compassion and concern for this chief power, or acclaimed success; some pursuing publican. Perhaps they expected Jesus to personal projects that promote one’s own lecture Zacchaeus about the evil of his ways. well-being; and others striving after a kind of There may have been some in the crowd self-justifying perfection. who had been robbed by Zacchaeus through The Zacchaeus story invites us to reflect on the levying of exorbitant taxes. However, the roads on which we have chosen to travel. Jesus did more than lecture him; He went What are we running after? Given the pace into his home and won him to Himself. In of life many lead, this running can almost be addition, when He returned to the street, He presented them not with an indignant, HOME DAILY BIBLE READINGS conniving publican but with a redeemed tax (March 18-24, 2019) commissioner, a philanthropist, and an honest man. Calling to Salvation This is the business of Jesus, and it taken literally. Am I on the path that leads should be the business of all who follow toward wholeness and salvation? If not, what Him. “For the son of man is come to seek course corrections do I need to take? What and to save that which was lost” (verse 10). might it mean for us to accept Jesus’ This narrative also demonstrates that no one statement that He must dwell in our home? is beyond the reach of the merciful Savior. It It is also the case that different members of is for this reason that He came into the the Lukan audience could have heard world. Custom and tradition must be cast different messages from this story. For aside in the interest of winning the lost to outcasts like Zacchaeus, it could have been Jesus Christ. an affirmation of their right to belong to the people of God. For a community inclined to III. CONCLUDING REFLECTION exclude, it could have been a challenging In our lesson today, we find a reminder of the meaning of Jesus’ mission. rambunctious, engaging, and likable For people with wealth, it could have character. How easy it is to imagine this provided a model—perhaps an ideal model short, rather dignified fellow running that was seldom completely copied—of what through a hostile crowd and climbing a tree conversion meant for people of means. to see the one to whom his heart is drawn. His actions dramatize Augustine’s spiritual PRAYER insight addressed in this prayer to God: “You Dear Lord, help us ever to put our trust in You. have made us for yourself, and our heart is Give us the wisdom and insight to see the good in restless until it rests in you.” What is it that others and to know that no one is beyond the reach of Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 39 Your grace and mercy. Make us instruments of Your a mighty way. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. saving purposes, and use us to win others to Christ in MONDAY, March 18: “Laws of Confession and Restitution” (Exodus 22:1-3; Numbers 5:5- 7) TUESDAY, March 19: “Israel’s Salvation and Commitment to God” (Deuteronomy 26:16-19) WEDNESDAY, March 20: “‘I Must Proclaim the Good News!’” (:38-43) THURSDAY, March 21: “‘Let the Children Come to Me’” (Luke 18:15-17) FRIDAY, March 22: “Entering the Kingdom of God” (Luke 18:18 -30) SATURDAY, March 23: “Blind Man Receives Sight and Salvation” (Luke 18:35-43) SUNDAY, March 24: “Receiving Salvation, Correcting Injustice” (Luke 19:1-10) March 31, 2019 Lesson 5

CALLED TO DISCIPLESHIP ADULT/YOUTH CHILDREN ADULT/YOUNG ADULT TOPIC: Purposeful GENERAL LESSON TITLE: Called to Love and Following Follow Jesus YOUTH TOPIC: Follow the Good Leader CHILDREN’S TOPIC: Follow the Leader

DEVOTIONAL READING Psalm 91 ADULT/YOUTH BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: :12-22; BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Matthew 4:12-22 Mark 1:14-20 PRINT PRINT PASSAGE: Matthew 4:12-22 PASSAGE: Matthew 4:12-22 KEY VERSE: Matthew 4:19 KEY VERSE: Matthew 4:22 CHILDREN Matthew 4:12-22—KJV 15 Th e land of Zabulon, and the land of 12 Now when Jesus had heard that John Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; 13 And leaving Nazareth, he came and 16 Th e people which sat in darkness saw dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, great light; and to them which sat in the region in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: and shadow of death light is sprung up. 14 Th at it might be fulfi lled which was 17 From that time Jesus began to preach, spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 18 And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter,

40 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the 19 And he saith unto them, Follow me, and sea: for they were fi shers. I will make you fi shers of men. Matthew 4:12-22—NIV 20 And they straightway left their nets, and

UNIFYING LESSON PRINCIPLE: People can be settled in their ways but destined for greater purposes. How do people discover and respond to that higher calling? When Jesus called His fi rst disciples, they responded by leaving their routine work to follow Him.

LESSON OBJECTIVES Upon the completion of this lesson, the students will be able to do the following: 1. Tell how Peter, Andrew, James, and John accepted Jesus’ call and the diff erence it made in their lives. 2. Refl ect on how their lives would be diff erent if they had not heard the call to follow Jesus. 3. Worship God for the blessings in their lives that have come because they follow Jesus. 12 When Jesus heard that John had been followed him. put in prison, he withdrew to Galilee. 21 And going on from thence, he saw other 13 Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their Zebulun and Naphtali— father, mending their nets; and he called them. 14 to fulfi ll what was said through the 22 And they immediately left the ship and prophet Isaiah: 15 “Land of Zebulun and land of their father, and followed him. Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, 19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will Galilee of the Gentiles— 16 “the people living in send you out to fi sh for people.” darkness have seen a great light; on those living 20 At once they left their nets and followed him. in the land of the shadow of death a light has 21 Going on from there, he saw two other dawned.” brothers, James son of Zebedee and his 17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, brother John. Th ey were in a boat with their “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus near.” called them, 18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of 22 and immediately they left the boat and their Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter father and followed him. and his brother Andrew. Th ey were casting a net into the lake, for they were fi shermen. AGE-LEVEL POINTS TO BE future ideal king, the Messiah. (In Isaiah, the “sea” is the Mediterranean; here, it is the Sea EMPHASIZED of Galilee.) Teachers of ADULTS and YOUTH —“Th e kingdom of heaven has come near” —Matthew quotes Isaiah 9:1-2 in condensed (verse 17) is derived from Daniel 7:13-14, the form (verses 15-16) to show that Jesus is the salvation of all humanity through the exercise of the sovereignty of God’s just rule.

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 41 —“Kingdom of heaven” is Matthew’s way of Teachers of CHILDREN speaking of the kingdom of God, to avoid using —Rabbis were sought out by would-be God’s name, a Jewish sensibility of the time. followers; they did not command people to be —“Th ey left their nets” (verse 20). Th ey had their disciples. been wading out from the shore, throwing a —Jesus’ relocation from Nazareth to Capernaum casting net, and encircling the fi sh. Now they was a purposeful act of self-determination, leave their business and means of livelihood signaling the focus of His ministry to include to follow Jesus wherever He takes them, to Gentiles. learn His message, and to help in any way they —The disciples Jesus called were busy when are able. Jesus called them to change course. —Jesus’ proclamation, “Repent, for the kingdom —Matthew shows Jesus’ power when His call of of heaven has come near” (Matthew 4:17), is “Follow me” results in making disciples.

refl ected in John the Baptist’s earlier message —Fishermen made good money near the city of (Matthew 3:1-2) and Jesus’ later instructions Galilee and were important to the local on what His disciples were to proclaim (see economy. Matthew 10:7, next week’s lesson). —Jesus adopted Capernaum as His own city —By abandoning their father’s business, James after being rejected in Nazareth. and John risked being dishonored in their —Matthew describes Jesus’ adoption of community. Capernaum as a fulfi llment of Isaiah 9:1-2. —Jesus’ main message is about the arrival of the kingdom of God. THE CHRONOLOGICAL SETTING OF immediate response of the disciples to His authoritative call to discipleship. THE LESSON Matthew sets the chronological scene of this narrative more carefully than Mark does, both by THE GEOGRAPHICAL AND noting Jesus’ removal from Nazareth to CULTURAL SETTING OF THE Capernaum and by giving it theological significance. The return of Jesus to Galilee LESSON functions as a hinge or bridge, bringing Jesus left Nazareth to make His home in Matthew’s introduction of Jesus to a close. Capernaum by the Sea of Galilee. He went there Matthew uses a significant citation from Isaiah with the intent of forming His messianic 9:1-2 to set the tone for the in-breaking of the community. He began by extending an kingdom as the mission of Jesus to Israel, authoritative call to four fishermen. Within this beginning in Galilee. The consistent theme close-knit group of disciples, it will become clear running through this whole section is the that three of the four whose call is recorded first authority of Jesus and its impact. The will form an inner circle, chosen to be with Jesus demonstration of His authority begins with the in moments of special significance, and mentioned by name from time to time. The rest

42 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 of the Twelve receive little or no individual Fishermen (verse 18)—Greek: halieus (hä- mention beyond the listing of their names in lēyü’s): “fi shers” (KJV); catchers of fi sh. Matthew 10:2-4. The proximity here of the two Followed (verse 22)—Greek: akoloutheō (ä- pairs of brothers suggests that the four were kolü-the’-ō): joined one as a disciple; became or already colleagues in the fishing business. The was a disciple. association of the mother of James and John Repent (verse 17)—Greek: metanoeō (me-tä- with the other women at the Cross according to noe’-ō): to change one’s mind; to repent. Matthew 27:56, as well as her intervention on their behalf in 20:20, has led some to suppose I. INTRODUCTION that the family of Zebedee was in some way related to Jesus’ own family. Matthew does not A. Called to an Adventure in Jesus indicate this. Rather, the suddenness with which Christ Zebedee was left behind in the boat suggests his TOPICAL OUTLINE sons made an unpremeditated, spur-of-the- OF THE LESSON moment decision to follow Jesus. I. Introduction A. Called to an Adventure in Jesus Christ PROMINENT CHARACTER(S) IN B. Biblical Background THE LESSON II. Exposition and Application Andrew: a fisherman who followed John the of the Scripture Baptist and then became one of the first disciples A. Th e Light Dawns in Galilee of Jesus; brother to Simon Peter. (Matthew 4:12-16) James: an apostle of Jesus; a son of Zebedee, B. Th e Founding of the Messianic and the elder brother of John. Community John: a son of Zebedee and the younger brother (Matthew 4:17) of James. C. Th e Command to Follow Jesus John (the Baptist): the son of the priest (Matthew 4:18-20) Zechariah and Elizabeth; forerunner of Jesus D. Th e Call of James and John Christ. Naphtali: the sixth son of Jacob. Th e territory (Matthew 4:21-22) named for him was located near the upper . Simon Peter: the most prominent of Jesus’ twelve disciples. Zebulun: the tenth son of Jacob. Th e territory named for him was located in the region of Galilee and shared a border with Naphtali.

KEY TERMS IN THE LESSON

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 43 III. Concluding Refl ection

Th e call story described in this lesson portrays a sudden and complete change of lifestyle involving “leaving” both work and family. Matthew understood discipleship as giving up everything to follow Jesus. Jesus’ demands on His followers are uncompromising. While Matthew does not record the call of any others of the Twelve except Matthew, we are left to assume that all of them were similarly expected to give up everything to follow Jesus (as indeed Peter will assert in Matthew 19:27). Th e abortive call to the rich young ruler in Matthew 19:21-22 demonstrates the uncompromising nature of Jesus’ call to discipleship; it is all or none when the Master calls! Th e most prominent feature of these verses is the overwhelming authority of the call of Jesus. Matthew 4:18 recounts the normal, everyday activity of Simon Peter and Andrew. Jesus said, “Come on after me, and I will make you to be fi shers of men” (see 4:19). In 4:20, they immediately left their nets and followed Him. Th e pattern of Jesus’ powerful call was repeated with James and his brother, John; again, they responded immediately (see 4:21-22). To what were the four fi shermen responding? Jesus had just begun to proclaim, “Repent! For the kingdom of heaven is near” (see 4:17). Th e four believed, even if only with faltering faith, that Jesus’ preaching was true! Th ey began to acknowledge their need

44 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 for conversion—their need to be saved— disciples would know that they have not and they had begun to believe that through grasped or appropriated all the ramifications Jesus the promised kingly saving deeds of that His call will have for their lives. God have broken into Israel’s history. Nevertheless, the circumstances that define The fishermen left their former lives and the beginning of discipleship with Jesus, followed Jesus. It is easy to find either too which will go on characterizing that much or too little significance in this aspect relationship for the fishermen (and for Jesus’ of their response. On the one hand, disciples of all times and places), is the commentators at times speak almost as if the authority and primacy of His call to come to disciples clearly understood at this point who Him, to follow Him. Jesus was and what discipleship might It is, after all, the reign of God that Jesus personally cost them, and they were willing brought and announced. The great reality is to pay that price. A quick reading of that God’s reign in Jesus has broken into a Matthew’s gospel (or any of the Gospels) sinful world to reclaim and save it, and finally shows how wrongheaded it is to make that to renew it forever. Into that larger reality, much of their response. The disciples did not individual men and women are claimed and yet fully understand who Jesus is or what He called by Jesus, graciously and freely. No has come to do, and they understood neither one, however, can come to Him without what Christian discipleship is nor (in their acknowledging His authority to call and to case) what apostolic ministry would call unconditionally. He is the Lord. His call eventually cost them. Nor did they is “Come, follow me” (see Matthew 4:19). completely abandon everything in the sense of having nothing to do with their former B. Biblical Background lives. They still had houses and mothers-in- Notwithstanding its small size, this law (see Matthew 8:14-15), mothers (see passage of Scripture represents a major piece 20:20-28), and presumably other of Matthew’s introductory structure. The call relationships as well. of the first disciples is the beginning of the On the other hand, there can be no doubt messianic community, the church. Jesus’ that just as Jesus had begun to preach and to baptism and temptation in Matthew 3 were call disciples to Himself, so these disciples not merely individualistic religious were given, through His preaching and call, experiences of a “great man,” but the the beginning of the understanding that none recapitulation of the birth of Israel in the of their old priorities and relationships would Red Sea and the wilderness testing; they lead ever be the same or would ever again possess to the formation of the new community, the primary importance. But the four do not Messiah’s people. know the implications of this as yet. There Next to Jesus, interest in the gospel of will be many occasions, even within the brief Matthew is focused upon His disciples. Jesus course of Matthew’s gospel, when Jesus’ called people to Himself. He did mighty

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 45 works as the One who had authority, but His The Master-disciple relationship between chief concern was to make God known as Jesus and His disciples that is portrayed in Father and to bring people to God. Jesus left Matthew is markedly different from that

II. EXPOSITION AND APPLICATION OF THE SCRIPTURE a great body of teachings, but He was not relationship as it is reflected, for example, in content simply to bind people to His rabbinic literature. In rabbinic literature, a teachings. He gave Himself to His people, disciple was to choose his own master; and and He bound them to Himself. his first commitment was to the Law. The first clear indication of this is seen in the Consequently, he could transfer from one calling of the four fishermen. master to another to acquire more That Jesus felt that He had the right to knowledge of the Law. By contrast, Jesus make demands upon people comes with did not wait for volunteers but selected His force through all the traditions. He own disciples and confronted them with an demanded the trust, love, obedience, and, if unconditional demand. He required absolute necessary, the lives of His followers. Of allegiance to Himself, not merely respectful course, He gave Himself to them in the same service. He did not call them to be His radical way, even to His life at Golgotha. He apprentices in the intellectual probing of the offered more than example and teaching. He Torah, or to rehearse venerable religious offered Himself. He demanded more than traditions. He called fishermen to a new imitation and the acceptance of His teaching. kind of fishing: they were to “fish for He asked people to give themselves to Him. people.” That some were willing thus to yield to His claims is proclaimed in today’s lesson. A. The Light Dawns in Galilee This text is important because it marks a (Matthew 4:12-16) transition. It is the beginning of Jesus’ Now when Jesus had heard that John was ministry, and Matthew provided four scenes: cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; Jesus preaching the reign of God; His return And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in to Galilee; the calling of the disciples; and Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in His demonstration of God’s transforming the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: That reign in their midst through Jesus’ teaching, it might be fulfilled which was spoken by preaching, and healing. John had been Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the arrested. His work as forerunner of the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Messiah was complete, and Jesus’ own Gentiles; The people which sat in darkness ministry began in earnest. Remarkably, Jesus saw great light; and to them which sat in the dared to take up the very same message that region and shadow of death light is sprung got John arrested. “Repent, for the kingdom up. of heaven has come near” (verse 17). The

46 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 word translated “arrested” literally means B. The Founding of the Messianic “handed over.” It would appear at several Community (Matthew 4:17) junctures when Jesus is “handed over” (see From that time Jesus began to preach, and to Matthew 17:22; 20:18; 26:2), leading up to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at the point where He is to be “handed over to hand. be crucified” (26:2). Up to now, Jesus had been largely a When Jesus heard that John had been passive figure in Matthew’s story, but with arrested, it says that He “withdrew” to the words “From that time,” the situation Galilee. This is the same word used when changed, as Jesus took the initiative. Up until Mary and Joseph were forced to flee with the this time, though briefly involved with John baby Jesus under Herod’s threat. The reader and others by the Jordan, Jesus had been may be given to understand that Jesus is presented as operating alone. However, it is once again under threat. Going to Galilee is significant that His first recorded action was doubly significant. Galilee is the very heart of to gather a group of followers who would Israel. This location keeps faith with a commit themselves to a total change of priority of Jesus’ mission, which is first to lifestyle to join Jesus as His essential support Israel (see 10:5). At the same time, it is a group for the whole period of His public place referred to as “Galilee of the Gentiles,” ministry. which signals the coming breakthrough of From this point on, we shall not read the mission to the “nations.” Matthew stories about Jesus alone, but stories about quotes Isaiah 9:1-2: “the people who sat in Jesus and His disciples. Wherever He goes, darkness have seen a great light” (verse 16, they will go; their presence with Jesus, even if NRSV). This is a text rich with messianic not explicitly mentioned, is assumed. While associations and expectations of a light that the Twelve would not be formally listed until would enlighten the Gentiles in the messianic Matthew 10:1-4, the stories from here on will age. In its original context, this text refers to assume a wider group of disciples than just the situation of oppression after 722 BCE, the first four mentioned here. when Assyria occupied Zebulun and These disciples would be the primary Naphtali (in the region of Galilee) and exiled audience for Jesus’ teaching and witnesses of the leadership. Here, Matthew transposed the His works of power, but they are also called text from one situation of imperial to be His active helpers in the task of aggression to another, as Israel now suffered “fishing for people,” as we shall discover in under Rome’s imperial control. The promise Matthew 10. The first time Jesus would be of the passage is that the rod of the left alone after this point would be when the oppressor would be broken through one disciples eventually deserted Him in the who would embody God’s reign of justice, garden of Gethsemane (see 26:56). Until righteousness, and peace. then, Matthew’s story is not only that of the Messiah, but also of the messianic

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 47 community which is being formed around fishing. Following Jesus’ proclamation of Him. The placing of this incident right at the repentance in view of the coming of God’s beginning makes it clear that this was Jesus’ kingship, it seems appropriate in this context intention. From that time, Jesus had begun to take the catching of fish in a positive to proclaim His message of repentance, sense, of recruiting new subjects to God’s surrounded by a supportive messianic kingship. It is a metaphor that stands for the community. time of decision, and Simon and Andrew would have a role in bringing people to that C. The Command to Follow decision. They would indeed become fishers Jesus (Matthew 4:18-20) of men and women. And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw The conclusion to the call story of Peter two brethren, Simon called Peter, and and Andrew ends with a remark on their Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sacrificial obedience: they immediately left sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto their nets (verse 20). When the authoritative them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers call of Jesus comes, there is not even time to of men. And they straightway left their nets, say farewell to one’s father. Peter and and followed him. Andrew no longer belong first to kith and Etiquette required a rabbi’s disciple to kin. They belong to Jesus from here on. walk literally behind his teacher. However, Leaving their nets highlights the disciples’ when Jesus called Simon and Andrew to radical commitment. Renouncing their old “come behind him” (verse 19), they would life, not even taking time to bring in nets, soon find that He is far from a conventional they left all and followed Jesus. Their call was rabbi. This is true especially when we to homelessness. They were being ordered to remember that those who wished to follow a deny self, to suffer the loss of their own lives rabbi generally took the initiative themselves, and livelihood. Unlike the affluent or those rather than being summoned in this way. who practiced trades to support What Jesus issued here is not even an themselves—for example, Paul the invitation but, rather, a demand. Such a tentmaker—the disciples of Jesus must give summons is more typical of a prophet than full time and all energy to their work. of a rabbi. Moreover, the task to which He was calling them is described not primarily as D. The Call of James and one of learning from a teacher, but of active fishing. The fishing metaphor follows John (Matthew 4:21-22) naturally from the description of their And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and previous occupation, but it left open the John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their nature of what is to be caught from the father, mending their nets; and he called fishing. Catching fish is not very pleasing to them. And they immediately left the ship and the fish—but catching people in the interest their father, and followed him. of the kingdom is an acceptable mode of

48 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 The two pairs of brothers are some and Savior. They were called to follow Him, distance apart. Matthew reported that Jesus to walk in the way that He was walking as He saw the first two brothers (Simon and proclaimed and made manifest the kingdom Andrew), and as He went from there He saw of heaven. the other two (James and John). The first The passage follows a call and response and two were called away from their actual a transition to new identity format. In Peter, fishing—the second from repairing their Andrew, James, and John, we see a prototype nets. The call to these brothers was, of of all future followers who will respond to course, the same as that extended to the first Jesus’ call. Jesus called them, and they pair of brothers. They responded with the dropped everything and followed Him same cheerfulness and readiness to serve “immediately.” They did not ask where He (verse 22). Since their father was mentioned was going, and He did not tell them. There as being with them, Matthew remarked that was no mention of their being apostles to they left him. Zebedee was not called to the hint at their future importance. Nor was ministry, but he consented to the call of his there mention of what this calling would cost sons and remained behind. Therefore, he too them. Did Peter and Andrew have any believed in Jesus and rejoiced in the great inkling that they might end up crucified? work for which Jesus chose his sons. Even The call for them is unexpected, those who are not directly called to formal disruptive, and intrusive. The disciples were ministry can be a blessing to loved ones and called from other good and important friends who hear that call and respond things—from work that sustains them and positively. Loved ones can be a great means from families of encouragement and support. HOME DAILY BIBLE READINGS III. CONCLUDING REFLECTION (March 25-31, 2019) One of the first things Jesus did at the beginning of His ministry was to call Called to Discipleship disciples. He formed an alternative that love them. This new commitment to community to share in the work of preaching follow Jesus wherever He leads may not and showing forth the reign of God. Most break these relationships and obligations, but rabbis did not seek out their students but, it will now take precedence. Before their rather, were sought by them. Here, by encounter with Jesus, the disciples seemed contrast, all the initiative rests with Jesus. He peaceful and contented, living the lives of came to them, He saw them, and He called simple fisherfolk. But then, upon them to follow. It is worth noting that the encountering Jesus, they found their hearts calling was not a calling to worship Jesus and filled with the peace of God that surpasses all form a “cult of Jesus.” It was not even a understanding. Therefore, they dropped their calling to accept Him as their personal Lord nets and followed Him. It is also notable that

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 49 Jesus was here calling disciples from among PRAYER the lower social ranks. Jesus’ calling came Dear heavenly Father, help us to respond in faith to first to some of the most vulnerable people. Your call and claim upon our lives. Give us the They were called out of their ordinary lives courage to go immediately to the work You are and ho-hum existence into God’s service. assigning our hands to do. In Jesus’ name we pray. They then receive an odd sort of promise: Amen. they would now become fishers of people. They joined God’s great and gracious “dragnet” that took in all kinds of fish. MONDAY, March 25: “Jethro Hears of the Egyptian Deliverance” (Exodus 18:1-9) TUESDAY, March 26: “Sustained by God” (Deuteronomy 8:1-11) WEDNESDAY, March 27: “God Speaks to Disciples” (Luke 9:28-36) THURSDAY, March 28: “Well Pleased” (Matthew 3:11-17) FRIDAY, March 29: “Tempted in the Wilderness” (Matthew 4:1-11) SATURDAY, March 30: “Good News and Healing” (Matthew 4:23-25) SUNDAY, March 31: “Called and Enabled for Ministry” (Matthew 4:12-22)

CALL AND MISSION ADULT/YOUTH CHILDREN ADULT/YOUNG ADULT TOPIC: Summoned GENERAL LESSON TITLE: Jesus Calls Us to Witness for Service CHILDREN’S TOPIC: Be Helpful to Others YOUTH TOPIC: Called for a Purpose

DEVOTIONAL READING Matthew 15:21-28

ADULT/YOUTH BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Matthew 10 BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Matthew 10 PRINT PASSAGE: Matthew 10:1-15 PRINT PASSAGE: Matthew 10:1-15 KEY VERSE: Matthew 10:1 KEY VERSE: Matthew 10:1 CHILDREN Matthew 10:1-15—KJV 2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are AND WHEN he had called unto him his twelve these; Th e fi rst, Simon, who is called Peter, and disciples, he gave them power against unclean Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of and John his brother; sickness and all manner of disease.

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3 Philip, and Bartholomew; Th omas, and 10 Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, Matthew the publican; James the son of neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Th is worthy of his meat. addaeus; 11 And into whatsoever city or town ye shall 4 Simon the Canaanite, and , enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there who also betrayed him. abide till ye go thence. 5 Th ese twelve Jesus sent forth, and 12 And when ye come into an house, salute it. commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of 13 And if the house be worthy, let your peace the Gentiles, and into any city of the come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your enter ye not: 6 But go rather to the lost sheep of peace return to you. the house of Israel. 7 And as ye go, preach, 14 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear saying, Th e kingdom of heaven is at hand. your words, when ye depart out of that house 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, or city, shake off the dust of your feet. cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. 15 Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable Matthew 10:1-15—NIV for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the JESUS CALLED his twelve disciples to him and day of judgment, than for that city. gave them authority to drive out impure spirits 9 “Do not get any gold or silver or copper and to heal every disease and sickness. to take with you in your belts— 2 Th ese are the names of the twelve apostles: fi 10 “no bag for the journey or extra shirt or rst, Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother sandals or a staff , for the worker is worth his Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother keep. John; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Th omas and 11 “Whatever town or village you enter, Matthew the tax collector; James son of search there for some worthy person and stay at Alphaeus, and Th addaeus; 4 their house until you leave. and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. 12 “As you enter the home, give it your 5 These twelve Jesus sent out with the following greeting. 13 “If the home is deserving, let your instructions: “Do not go among the Gentiles or peace rest on it; if it is not, let your peace return enter any town of the Samaritans. 6 “Go rather to to you. the lost sheep of Israel. 7 “As you go, proclaim 14 “If anyone will not welcome you or listen this message: ‘Th e kingdom of heaven has come to your words, leave that home or town and shake near.’ the dust 8 “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those off your feet. who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely 15 “Truly I tell you, it will be more bearable you have received; freely give. for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment 9 Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in than for that your purses,

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 51 town.” AGE-LEVEL POINTS TO BE —One’s “shaking the dust from his/her feet” UNIFYING LESSON PRINCIPLE: When people have discovered a greater purpose in life, they may be uncertain of what to do with that discovery. Where can persons fi nd directions for implementing that greater purpose to benefi t others? Jesus gave the fi rst disciples direction to heal and witness to the “lost” persons of their shared community.

LESSON OBJECTIVES Upon the completion of this lesson, the students will be able to do the following: 1. Compare and contrast the disciples’ mission in Matthew 10 with the mission of the church today. 2. Anticipate the challenges they will experience in attempting to fulfi ll Christ’s mission for the church. 3. Prepare themselves for greater participation in Christ’s mission for the church. EMPHASIZED was a visual demonstration that one was finished with trying to communicate with or Teachers of ADULTS and YOUTH minister to someone. In Acts 13:51, Paul and —Th e listings of the Twelve in Matthew 10:24; did that when they were driven out Mark 3:16-19; :13-16; and Acts 1:13 are of the city of Antioch of Pisidia. consistent in that (1) Simon Peter is always —This call to go only to the lost sheep of Israel listed fi rst, (2) Philip is always listed fi fth, and was expanded in the . (3) James son of Alphaeus is always listed —Related to verse 12, the usual Jewish form of ninth; the three names under each of those greeting was “Peace (shalom) be on this three are always the same (with Judas Iscariot house.” absent from Acts 1:13), although their ordering diff ers. Teachers of CHILDREN —Th e message the Twelve were to proclaim, —Jesus identified twelve followers whom He “the kingdom of heaven has come near” would train to minister to others. (Matthew 10:7), is a consistent extension of —Jesus gave specific instructions to His Jesus’ message (see Matthew 4:17, last week’s followers as to where to go to minister. lesson) and that of John the Baptist (see —Jesus gave specific instructions as to what His Matthew 3:1). followers were to do. —Th e people of Sodom are condemned for —Jesus’ followers were to rely upon others for their lack of hospitality in Ezekiel 16:49. Jesus shelter and food. says that failure to welcome His messengers —Those who showed hospitality to Jesus’ invites followers would be blessed. a worse fate than failure to welcome the —Those who refused to show hospitality to in Genesis 19. Jesus’ followers would be left alone.

52 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 THE CHRONOLOGICAL SETTING OF PROMINENT CHARACTER(S) IN THE LESSON THE LESSON A distinctive characteristic of the gospel of The Twelve: a group of disciples specially Matthew is that it includes long sections of the selected and instructed by Jesus to assist Him in teachings of Jesus. There are five of these His earthly mission. discourses in all; the first of these is the (see 5:1–7:29), and the second is KEY TERMS IN THE LESSON this section of instructions to the disciples as Impure (verse 1)—Greek: akathartos (ä- they are sent out as missionaries of the kingdom kä’thär-tos): not cleansed; “unclean” (KJV). of heaven. Even though these teachings of Jesus Lepers (verse 8)—Greek: lepros (le-pro’s): are addressed to the twelve disciples, Matthew’s persons with skin that is scaly, rough, affected original audience surely heard them as words with leprosy; “those who have leprosy” (NIV). intended to shape their own mission work. The Samaritans (verse 5)—Greek: Samaritēs (sä- aim of this section, then, is to instruct and märē’-tās): inhabitants of the city of Samaria. encourage the disciples. They are to be about the urgent work of Jesus Christ. What they do and Welcome (verse 14)—Greek: dechomai how people respond to what they do really (de’kho-mī): accept; “receive” (KJV). counts. To accept the witness of the faithful TOPICAL OUTLINE OF THE church is, in effect, to receive Jesus Christ; to LESSON reject that faithful witness, on the other hand, is a I. Introduction dire loss, a lamentable missing of the treasure of A. A Manual for Missionaries the kingdom of heaven. B. Biblical Background

THE GEOGRAPHICAL AND II. Exposition and Application of the CULTURAL SETTING OF Scripture A. Commissioned and Sent Forth THE LESSON (Matthew 10:1) The people of Israel were comprised of twelve tribes from the lineage of Jacob and continued to be identified by tribe throughout their history. Thus, choosing twelve disciples I. INTRODUCTION would have been a symbolic act, communicating A. A Manual for Missionaries that Jesus was restoring and reconstituting Israel B. Called to Be Disciples—Sent Out as around Himself and His ministry. The authority Apostles that Jesus bequeathed to His twelve disciples was (Matthew 10:2-4) for the empowerment of their mission, which C. Instructions for Doing Ministry was to parallel His own. While their mission at (Matthew 10:5-6) this early stage was limited to Israel, a mission to D. Empowered to Do Miraculous Th ings “all nations” opened after His resurrection. (Matthew 10:7-10) E. Travel Light and Trust in God Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 53 (Matthew 10:11-15)

III. Concluding Refl ection

At the outset of His ministry, Jesus called many persons to be His disciples, and from His disciples He chose His twelve apostles; they were to be His more intimate friends and witnesses, who were afterwards to become the messengers of the Gospel. Th e name disciple means “learner”; Jesus was with them and instructing them. After His ascension, they were to be independent teachers of others, and were to be called apostles, or those sent—messengers. Th ere were at fi rst those who had merely followed Him because they desired to learn more of Him; but now these were directly and specially appointed for a particular work. Th ey had power to work miracles to convince the people that they were sent by God. God has never called and sent anyone to do anything for Him, but He has qualifi ed that person to do the work. All those whom He had called have in some measure been qualifi ed to do the work for which they were called to do. We are not told here whether these twelve should use, at their own discretion, the power given to them or whether it would be used under the special promptings of the Holy Spirit. Moreover, we were not informed as to the limitations, if any, of the exercise of this authority. Th ey had full authority to do that which the Lord wanted them to do. Jesus called His twelve disciples. He did not draft them, force them, or ask them to volunteer; He chose them to serve Him in a special way. Jesus did not choose these twelve to be His disciples because of their faith; in fact, their faith often faltered. He did not choose them because of their talent and ability; no one stood out with unusual ability. Th e disciples represented a wide range of backgrounds and life experiences; we can also speculate that, apparently, they might have had no more leadership potential than those who were not chosen. Th e one characteristic they all shared was the willingness to obey Jesus.

54 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 Christ calls us today to do the same. He does legends about them multiplied without end. not twist our arms and make us do Several of them were given occasional parts something we do not want to do. We can to play in the (Andrew, choose to join Him or remain behind. When Philip, Thomas, and a second Judas besides Christ calls us to follow Him in our day and the traitor). Thomas acquired a special place time, how shall we respond? Shall we give in the legends of the Syrian churches; he Him only a halfhearted commitment or our gave his name to two apocryphal Gospels whole hearts? (writings included in the Septuagint and Vulgate, but not in the Protestant Bible). It is B. Biblical Background believed that Thomas eventually travelled to Besides continuing His own itinerant India and founded there a Christian church ministry, Jesus now took another step of which still exists in the southern part of the great importance, by actually sending out the country. Peter alone can be said to be known Twelve who He had previously chosen for to history in a serious way. He encountered the twofold purpose of being with Him as Paul in Antioch and was known to travel His disciples and going forth from Him as with his wife (see Galatians 2:11-14); one of His apostles. For the first and only time in the factions at Corinth professed a particular the book of Matthew, the Twelve were called allegiance to him (see 1 Corinthians 1:12). It apostles. Of most of these twelve, we know is now generally agreed that he went to remarkably little as individuals, though they Rome and suffered martyrdom in the soon came to be revered in the church, and Neronian persecution. II. EXPOSITION AND APPLICATION OF THE SCRIPTURE A. Commissioned and Sent people followed and listened to Jesus, but Forth (Matthew 10:1) these twelve received the most intense AND WHEN he had called unto him his twelve training. We see the impact of these men disciples, he gave them power against throughout the rest of the . unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal They started the Christian church. The all manner of sickness and all manner of Gospels call these men the “disciples” or the disease. “Twelve.” The choice of the Twelve is highly Jesus had many disciples (learners), but symbolic. The number “12” corresponds to He appointed twelve to whom He gave the twelve tribes of Israel, showing the authority and special training. The twelve continuity between the old religious system disciples had already joined Jesus (see Mark and the new one based on Jesus’ message. 3:14-19), but Matthew waited until writing Jesus looked upon His mission as the his missionary discourse to introduce them in gathering of the true people of God. These his gospel. This records the first time that men were the righteous remnant (the faithful Jesus sent them out on their own (verse 5). believers throughout the Old Testament who These men were His inner circle. Many never abandoned God or His law) who

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 55 would carry on the work the twelve tribes The listing of the names of the disciples were chosen to do—to build the community varies somewhat in the other Gospels (see of God. Mark 3:16-19 and Luke 6:13-16). While The text explicitly tells us that Jesus Simon Peter heads each list, Judas Iscariot is was interested not only in proclaiming the always last, for he is the one who betrayed kingdom, but also in demonstrating it. Thus, Jesus to His enemies and then committed He gave His twelve authority over unclean suicide. All lists have as the first four the two spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every sets of brothers—Peter and Andrew, James disease and every sickness (verse 1). In the and John (verse 2). The second set of four Bible, God worked miracles most often in names in each list includes Philip and times of revival, times when He had raised Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew (verse up servants committed to His cause and full 3). In the final set of four, only the infamous of faith. Jesus empowered the Twelve to Judas Iscariot is well-known (verse 4). The perform such acts of mercy and compassion. disciples were all Jewish by ancestry and Both Jesus’ proclamation and practical acts probably remained with that branch of of compassion went beyond what many after the church became Christians call ministry today. Our increasingly Gentile in the second half of the communities were ravaged by demonic first century. For that reason, our knowledge forces, violence, injustice, and all kinds of of their later lives comes primarily from human pain, while the church often remained tradition. Despite the common features of irrelevant except to the few who venture the disciples, however, the list indicates some through our doors. To follow Jesus’ model of diversity. To include a tax collector and ministry, more Christians must stop simply possibly a revolutionary in the same band of going to church and learn rather to become disciples is noteworthy. the church among our communities in The list of Jesus’ twelve disciples does evangelism and ministry to social needs. not give us many details, probably because there were not many impressive details to B. Called to Be Disciples—Sent Out as tell. Jesus called people from all backgrounds Apostles (Matthew 10:2-4) and occupations—fishermen, religious Now the names of the twelve apostles are activists, tax collectors. He called common these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, people and uncommon leaders; rich and and Andrew his brother; James the son of poor; educated and uneducated. Today, Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip, and many people think that only certain people Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the can follow Christ, but this was not the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; attitude of the Master Himself. God can use Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who anyone, no matter how insignificant he or also betrayed him. she appears. When you feel small and useless, remember that God uses ordinary people to do His extraordinary work. Any of 56 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 us who struggle with whether we are Samaritan woman. Jesus’ command to “go adequate to carry out God’s purposes in the rather to the lost sheep of Israel” (verse 6, world should recall that the first ambassadors NIV) means that the disciples should spend Jesus called were wholly inadequate. God their time among the Jews. These words especially uses those who will recognize their restricted the disciples’ short-term mission to own inadequacy, for those who suppose their the south. Jesus came not to the Jews only, own ability adequate for God’s call usually but to the Jews first (see Romans 1:16). God end up depending on it instead of Him. chose the Jews to tell the rest of the world about Him. Later, these disciples would C. Instructions for Doing receive the commission to “go and make Ministry (Matthew disciples of all nations” (see Matthew 28:19). 10:5-6) Jewish disciples and apostles preached the These twelve Jesus sent forth, and Gospel of the risen Christ all around the commanded them, saying, Go not into the Roman Empire, and soon Gentiles were way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the pouring into the church. The Bible clearly Samaritans enter ye not: But go rather to the teaches that God’s message of salvation is lost sheep of the house of Israel. for all people, regardless of race, sex, or Jesus sent out the twelve disciples on a national origin. mission to preach the coming of the D. Empowered to Do Miraculous Things kingdom (verse 7). He also empowered them (Matthew 10:7-10) to exercise authority over demons and And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of sickness. Jesus gave specific instructions heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the regarding the focus of their ministry: “Do lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely not go among the Gentiles or . . . ye have received, freely give. Provide neither Samaritans” (verse 5, NIV). The Samaritans gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Nor were a race that resulted from intermarriage scrip for your journey, neither two coats, between Jews and Gentiles after the Old neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. Testament captivities (see 2 Kings 17:24). The message to be proclaimed by the When the Jews returned from exile, they disciples is exactly the same as that of John refused to allow the Samaritans to help them the Baptist (see 3:2) and of Jesus Himself rebuild the Temple (see Ezra 4). As a result, (see 4:17), though the call to repentance the Samaritans developed their own religion, which explicitly introduces those earlier accepting only the Pentateuch as God’s summaries is here left unspoken. Matthew authoritative Word. takes the call to repentance for granted as the This did not mean that Jesus opposed corollary of the coming of God’s kingship evangelizing Gentiles and Samaritans; in fact, (verse 7). The verbal message is to be Matthew had already described Jesus’ complemented by actions which also encounter with Gentiles (see 8:28-34), and correspond to Jesus’ own miraculous activity; John 4 recounts His conversation with a Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 57 the four acts of deliverance specified are provision for their material needs while on carefully worded to reflect the miracles in the mission. Here is an opportunity to Matthew 8–9: cure the sick, raise the dead, exercise the practical trust in God’s cleanse the lepers, cast out demons (verse 8). provisions that they had been taught. If the Their mission was an extension of Jesus’, and Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head (see (with the exception of the calming of the Matthew 8:20), His representatives can storm) what He could do they were given the expect no material security except in God. If power to do too. Healing through divine they are not to go barefoot, basic clothing power (even the curing of leprosy) was and equipment will be provided. Additional widely regarded as an appropriate activity of provisions are forbidden. Money will not be holy men, and even exorcism was an needed, since they can expect to receive accepted part of the Jewish scene. Given appropriate hospitality en route. They will Jesus’ wide reputation already for such not need to carry belts or bags for their supernatural acts, people would have journey, but trust in the providential hand of expected His representatives to do likewise. God and those who love Him. The command to do these miracles Pastors, teachers, and missionaries without cost (verse 8b) can be translated “as should not plan on getting rich by their a gift” (dorean). It can also mean “for pastoring or teaching. Full-time Christian nothing,” or “without cause,” but usually workers deserve a reasonable wage for their connotes generosity, in their case by not labors, but rarely is it an enriching one; profit charging for services. Paul also made a point should not be of undue emphasis in any of not having charged for his missionary work they agree to do. The spirit of labors (see 2 Corinthians capitalism—maximum profit for minimum 11:7), in contrast with the common practice investment—has no place in the church’s of itinerant philosophers and teachers who ministry. Jesus gave the disciples a principle expected not just board and lodging, but fees to guide their actions as they ministered to as well. So, Jesus’ disciples’ having received others: “freely ye have received, freely give” the message of the kingdom of God free of (verse 8). The disciples had received salvation charge through Jesus Himself means that and the kingdom without cost, therefore they they were to offer their services in both should give their time under the same teaching and healing without expecting any principle. Because God has showered us with material reward. The following verses show, blessings, we should give generously to however (verses 9-10), that unlike Paul they others of our time, love, and possessions. were to accept board and lodging, since they Jesus set the precedent for kingdom work: it were to take no money with them to pay for was to be more humble than showy, more it—for laborers deserve their food. economically marginal than heavily endowed, The essence of the instructions in these more trustful in God than in upscale donors. verses is to travel light by not making special All the basics would be supplied by well

58 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 wishers en route, if necessary. E. Travel Light some will actively oppose them. So, they are and Trust in God (Matthew 10:11-15) now prepared for what they must do if And into whatsoever city or town ye shall hospitality is refused. Shaking off the dust enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there from one’s feet is an obvious symbol of abide till ye go thence. And when ye come disassociation; they want nothing more to do into an house, salute it. And if the house be with the place. It is also a ritual for failure worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it which, once performed, allows for closure be not worthy, let your peace return to you. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor and the moving on to the next field of labor. hear your words, when ye depart out of that Shaking off the dust that accumulated on house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. one’s sandals showed extreme contempt for Verily I say unto you, It shall be more an area and its people, as well as the tolerable for the land of Sodom and determination not to have any further Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for involvement with them. Pious Jews shook that city. dust from their feet after passing through The disciples were expected to travel Gentile cities or territories to show their light because they would be able to rely on separation from Gentile influences and hospitality from strangers (the need to “make practices. When the disciples shook the dust inquiries” indicates that the potential hosts from their feet after leaving a Jewish town, it were not yet known to the disciples [verse would be a vivid sign that they wished to 11]). By this time, there were no doubt remain separate from people who had people in most Galilean villages who had rejected Jesus. been among the crowds following Jesus, and such sympathizers would likely be willing III. CONCLUDING REFLECTION hosts for His disciples. The greeting of Chapter 9 closes with Jesus’ expression “Peace to this house” was no mere formality of compassion for the people. They were (verses 12-13). It was envisaged as an helpless effective blessing which went out and took effect, provided that it was suitably received; HOME DAILY BIBLE READINGS if not, it would have no effect but would (April 1-7, 2019) “return” like an uncashed check. Even human words uttered with intent and with Call and Mission God’s sanction can be effective and and harassed. Their need was great, but the irrevocable. To be willing hosts of such workers were few. In the final verse of messengers is indeed a blessing, but to chapter 9 (Matthew 9:38), Jesus charged the oppose them is to forfeit God’s peace disciples to pray for God to send workers— because to receive them is to receive Jesus, as the need was great and the workers were and to receive Jesus is to receive God. few. The first verse of Matthew 10 finds the Verses 14-15 recognize that not everyone help summoned. The disciples were to will welcome Jesus’ representatives, and become the answer to their own prayers. Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 59 Here for the first time, twelve disciples are The Holy Spirit is steadily widening the listed by name, and all are male. Much is circle. made of the gender of the disciples in the resistance to women serving in ordained PRAYER ministry. Less attention is drawn to the fact Eternal God, give us a heart for missions and that all twelve were Jewish. Even though this evangelizing Your Word. When we say yes to Your list of twelve includes no women and no call, give us faith enough to trust in Your Gentiles, the final chapter of the book of providential hand as we go about the business of Matthew will find women to be first in Your kingdom. Bless the work You have assigned proclaiming the Resurrection, and the our hands to do. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. mission will extend explicitly to Gentiles. MONDAY, April 1: “Jeremiah: Prophet to the Nations” (Jeremiah 1:4-10) TUESDAY, April 2: “Ananias Welcomes and Baptizes Saul” (Acts 9:10-19) WEDNESDAY, April 3: “Paul Called by a Vision” (Acts 16:6-10) THURSDAY, April 4: “Jesus Sends Out the Twelve” (Mark 6:7-13) FRIDAY, April 5: “A Great Harvest, but Few Workers” (Matthew 9:35-38) SATURDAY, April 6: “Handling and Surviving Persecution” (Matthew 10:16-25) SUNDAY, April 7: “The Twelve—Chosen and Commissioned” (Matthew 10:1-15) April 14, 2019 Lesson 7

CALLED TO REMEMBER ADULT/YOUTH CHILDREN ADULT/YOUNG ADULT TOPIC: Remembering GENERAL LESSON TITLE: A Woman Is Kind Good Deeds to Jesus YOUTH TOPIC: Remember This CHILDREN’S TOPIC: Be Kind to Others

DEVOTIONAL READING Acts 2:29-39 ADULT/YOUTH BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Matthew 26:1-13 BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Matthew 26:1-13 PRINT PASSAGE: Matthew 26:1-13 PRINT PASSAGE: Matthew 26:1-13 KEY VERSE: Matthew 26:10 KEY VERSE: Matthew 26:13 CHILDREN

60 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 Matthew 26:1-13—KJV 4 and they schemed to arrest Jesus secretly and AND IT came to pass, when Jesus had fi nished kill him. 5 “But not during the festival,” they said, all these sayings, he said unto his disciples, “or there may be a riot among the people.” 2 Ye know that after two days is the feast of the 6 While Jesus was in in the home passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be of Simon the Leper, crucifi ed. 3 Th en assembled together the chief 7 a woman came to him with an alabaster priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured people, unto the palace of the high priest, who on his head as he was reclining at the table. was called , 4 And consulted that they 8 When the disciples saw this, they were might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him. indignant. “Why this waste?” they asked. 5 But they said, Not on the feast day, lest 9 “Th is perfume could have been sold at a there be an uproar among the people. high price and the money given to the poor.” 6 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the 10 When Jesus understood it, he said unto house of Simon the leper, them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath 7 Th ere came unto him a woman having wrought a good work upon me. an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and 11 For ye have the poor always with you; but poured it on his head, as he sat at meat. me ye have not always. 8 But when his disciples saw it, they had 12 For in that she hath poured this ointment indignation, saying, To what purpose is this on my body, she did it for my burial. waste? 9 For this ointment might have been sold 13 Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this for much, and given to the poor. gospel shall be preached in the whole world, Matthew 26:1-13—NIV there shall also this, that this woman hath done, UNIFYING LESSON PRINCIPLE: People often long remember bad deeds done to them and forget good ones. Will the evil that is done to harm always outweigh the good? Th e woman with the alabaster jar performed an act of kindness to Jesus that will be remembered wherever the Good News is told.

LESSON OBJECTIVES Upon the completion of this lesson, the students will be able to do the following: 1. Contrast the love of the woman with the disciples’ response to her actions. 2. Appreciate the woman’s preparation of Jesus for His coming death and burial. 3. Embrace the call to proclaim the death and Christ despite ridicule or resistance. WHEN JESUS had fi nished saying all these be told for a memorial of her. things, he said to his disciples, 10 Aware of this, Jesus said to them, “Why 2 “As you know, the Passover is two days away— are you bothering this woman? She has done a and the Son of Man will be handed over to be beautiful thing to me. crucifi ed.” 3 Th en the chief priests and the 11 “Th e poor you will always have with elders of the people assembled in the palace of you, but you will not always have me. the high priest, whose name 12 “When she poured this perfume on my was Caiaphas, body, she did it to prepare me for burial.

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 61 13 “Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is done will also be told, in memory of her.” preached throughout the world, what she has Teachers of CHILDREN —Jesus’ disciples became indignant over the —Jesus shared with His disciples what would woman’s extravagant actions. happen to Him in the future. —Jesus commended the woman for her act of —Jesus’ enemies plotted how they could kill Him and not upset the people. kindness. —As Jesus was visiting a leper’s house, a woman —Jesus said that the woman’s actions were acts of poured precious ointment on His head. preparing His body for burial.

AGE-LEVEL POINTS TO BE well as days or weeks when work would simply not be available, this amount would EMPHASIZED easily represent a year’s wage for an unskilled Teachers of ADULTS and YOUTH laborer. —Parallel accounts of Jesus’ anointing in —Th e action of the woman contrasts with the Bethany are Mark 14:3-9 and John 12:1-8. Th acts of the Jerusalem leaders in plotting to kill e person whom Matthew and Mark describe Jesus (see Matthew 26:1-4). as “a woman” John identifi es as Mary, sister THE CHRONOLOGICAL SETTING OF of . —“All these things” (verse 1) refers to Jesus’ THE LESSON end-times teachings in Matthew 24-25. As His According to Matthew’s arrangement of His crucifi xion drew near, Jesus prepared His material, three events lead up to the arrest and disciples for the eschatological upheavals His : (1) the plot of the chief death and resurrection would bring. priests and the elders to arrest and kill Jesus, (2) —Verse 2 is a brief summary or reprise of the the at Bethany, and (3) the three Passion predictions in Matthew offer of Judas to betray Jesus. During Jesus’ (16:2128; 17:22-23; 20:17-19) and Mark (8:31- ministry, His opponents had regularly been the 33; 9:30-32; 10:32-34). scribes and Pharisees who had previously plotted —According to Deuteronomy 15:4, if the His death (see Matthew 12:14). The chief priests Israelites are faithful to God’s commands and elders introduced here are not really new; in (specifi cally regarding the remission of debts all probability, they were the ones who in the in 15:1-3), “there will . . . be no one in need birth story collaborated with King Herod in an among you.” Does this suggest that Jesus’ early attempt to destroy the Messiah (see declaration “You always have the poor with Matthew 2:3-4). In this passage, they do not even you” is a critique of their obedience? consider an investigation or fair trial, for they —In John 12:5, the cost of the woman’s have already decided on Jesus’ death. Matthew ointment is established as three hundred has so constructed this story that the reader denarii. A denarius was a common daily wage. already knows that the powerful words of Jesus Allowing for Sabbaths and other holy days as and the purpose of God will overrule the plot of the Jewish leaders, and that Jesus will die on the 62 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 day He has already designated by faithfully they would leave Him and flee. She prepared submitting to God’s will rather than as a victim Him for a fitting burial, and interestingly of their will. Matthew will not say that the women’s purpose At the very time the religious leaders were in going to the tomb was to anoint the body with plotting to arrest and kill Jesus, another person spices. For Matthew, that anointing had already was preparing for His death but in an entirely taken place symbolically through this act of love different way and with a different spirit. Even on behalf of this unnamed woman. though Jesus was surrounded by enemies, Matthew’s gospel demonstrates that God never PROMINENT CHARACTER(S) IN leaves Himself without a witness. The lamp of witness may burn low, but it never burns out. THE LESSON There will always be a righteous remnant that will Caiaphas: the high priest at the trial of Jesus. obey God. High Priest: the performer of sacrifi ces off ered to deity; the dispenser and interpreter of THE GEOGRAPHICAL AND oracular messages from the divine realm. CULTURAL SETTING OF Simon: a leper who lived in Bethany at whose THE LESSON home Jesus was anointed by a woman. Sandwiched between the scheming of the male authorities and the betrayal by a male disciple, KEY TERMS IN THE LESSON the noble actions of an unnamed woman stands Alabaster jar (verse 7)—Greek: alabastron out as a gesture of faithful love, service, and (älä’-bä-stron): an oblong vessel made of discipleship. Having already said that the Gospel alabaster in which unguents are preserved; will be preached to all nations (see Matthew “alabaster box” (KJV). 24:14), Jesus will now go on to say that wherever Anoint (verse 7)—Greek: katacheō (kä- it is preached the action of this woman will be täkhe’-ō): to pour down upon; “poured on” told in her memory. In contrast to the plotting of (NIV); “poured . . . on” (KJV). the authorities and the treachery of Judas, there Indignant (verse 8)—Greek: aganakteō stands out in high profile the striking action of (ä-gä-näk-te’-ō): to be very displeased; “had this woman who invaded the male space at the indignation” (KJV). banquet, bringing an alabaster jar of precious ointment that she poured over the head of Jesus as He reclined at the table. For the woman of I. INTRODUCTION Bethany, it was a sacrifice of something very precious—the action of a devoted disciple A. The Anointing of Jesus demonstrating her faith in and love for Christ. Passover (verse 2)—Greek: pascha (pä’- Anticipating the , she became the skhä): the paschal sacrifi ce (which was first disciple to understand the significance of accustomed to be off ered for the people’s His death. She did beforehand what the disciples deliverance of old from Egypt). of John had done for their murdered master (see Matthew 14:12), and what the official male disciples of Jesus would fail to do for Him, as

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 63 TOPICAL OUTLINE OF The meaning of this Passion week anointing is a matter of debate. Anointing was a THE LESSON custom at feasts, including Passover, but it I. Introduction seems to be too much of a coincidence that A. Th e Anointing of Jesus In today’s passion announcement (see Matthew 26:1-2), Matthew reminds us that notwithstanding the power of those who plotted against Jesus, Jesus moved according to His Father’s plan and not theirs. No matter how strong the forces arrayed against God’s servants, God will ultimately fulfi ll His purposes. Jesus, our example and sacrifi ce, obeyed God’s calling at great cost to Himself and provides a model for all others who would follow Him. In one of the opening scenes of this section, a woman plays the role that women continue to play in the accounts of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection: a foil that reveals the inadequate commitment of the male disciples. But more signifi cant is that her sacrifi ce provides a stark contrast to Judas’s determination to profi t somehow from Jesus’ demise (see Matthew 26:14-50), and his ultimate betrayal of Jesus to His enemies. Th at Jesus suff ered at the hands of close associates and disciples should encourage us when we experience rejection from those we seek to help. Th at most of the male disciples failed to stand fi rm when Jesus needed them most challenges us to watch and pray that we may be ready for testing. II. EXPOSITION AND APPLICATION OF THE SCRIPTURE B. Biblical Background Jesus was anointed during Passover week and then days later He was crucified as “king II. Exposition and Application of the Jews.” It is more probable that the of the Scripture woman’s action was intended to be A. Obedience to the Call of God messianic. This definitely seems to be the (Matthew 26:1-2) way in which Jesus understood her act of B. Organized Religion Plots to Kill Jesus anointing. The anointing took place at (Matthew 26:3-5) Bethany, about two miles opposite C. A Grateful Woman and a Jar of Perfume Jerusalem. Jesus’ prophecy—that what the (Matthew 26:6-9) woman did would be told in remembrance of D. How Much Is Too Much? (Matthew 26:10-13) her—anticipated His vindication and the continued proclamation of His message and III. Concluding Refl ection ministry. Otherwise, why would anyone B. Biblical Background recall the woman’s generous act? Her act of The present passage narrates the story of devotion placed her into the heart of the an unnamed woman who anointed Jesus. Gospel story.

64 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 A. Obedience to the Call of event foreshadowed Jesus’ work on the God (Matthew 26:1-2) Cross. As the spotless Lamb of God, His AND IT came to pass, when Jesus had finished blood would be spilled in order to save His all these sayings, he said unto his disciples, people from the penalty of death brought by Ye know that after two days is the feast of sin. The original setting of the Passover and the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed the ritual which had been developed for its to be crucified. observance were a perpetual reminder to “All these things” that Jesus had finished Israel of what it meant to be the chosen saying refers to His teaching about the people of God. This is the first time Jesus’ kingdom, recorded in chapter 25 (verse 1). death had been directly linked with the Matthew used this statement to signal the Passover, but the significance of the date end of his record of teaching. Next, Jesus would become an important part of the moved into the final days of His earthly meaning of the and of the ministry and to the act that He ultimately explanation Jesus then gave of the purpose came to accomplish: death for sins. This was of His death. not a surprise to Jesus; in fact, He had B. Organized Religion Plots to Kill Jesus already told His disciples on three different (Matthew 26:3-5) occasions that He would suffer and die (see Then assembled together the chief priests, Matthew 16:21-28; 17:22-23; 20:17-19). As if and the scribes, and the elders of the people, echoing these warnings, Jesus reminded His unto the palace of the high priest, who was disciples that the time had come for these called Caiaphas, And consulted that they things to be fulfilled. That Jesus would die might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him. But during Passover was deeply significant with they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be respect to Jewish history. The Passover an uproar among the people. commemorated the night the Israelites were The Jewish leaders (chief priests and the freed from Egypt (see Exodus 12), when elders of the people) plotted secretly to kill God “passed over” homes marked by the Jesus. The opposition against Jesus had been blood of the lamb. This was the last great rising for some time. His fame as a spiritual plague on Egypt when, in unmarked homes, leader was widespread, as was His popular the firstborn sons died. After this horrible reputation as a prophet like John (see disaster, Pharaoh allowed the Israelites to Matthew 21:26). His robust performance in leave. debates with Pharisaic and other leaders in Annually, Hebrew families would the Temple courtyard had not endeared Him celebrate the Passover meal, a feast with the to the religious authorities. These leaders had main course of lamb. The sacrifice of a lamb already decided that Jesus must die; they and the spilling of its blood commemorated simply needed an opportunity to kill Him. Israel’s escape from Egypt when the blood Thus, they were summoned to a meeting by of a lamb painted on their doorposts had the high priest. It was not a formal meeting saved their firstborn sons from death. This of the Council (a council that Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 65 functioned as the central judicial authority purpose is this waste? For this ointment for Jews), but more on the order of an ad might have been sold for much, and given to hoc planning group. the poor. The leaders were afraid of Jesus’ There is one bright interlude before the popularity, so they needed some sly way to worst of the drama began. Jesus was staying arrest and convict Jesus and sentence Him to in the home of “Simon the leper,” who lived death. They sought by stratagem, by guile, by in Bethany, just outside Jerusalem. Simon did some snare, to accomplish their end secretly, not have leprosy at this time, for lepers were without any public . It was the forced to live separately from people because decision of the group not to destroy Jesus of the extreme contagiousness of the disease. “during the feast, lest a tumult arise” (see As they sat at a meal, a woman came to Jesus verse 5). People had come to the feast from with an alabaster jar of very costly ointment, every nation where the Jews had been and she poured it on His head (verse 7). An scattered; many of the people regarded Jesus alabaster jar was a beautiful and expensive as a prophet, and some as the Messiah. The vase with a long, slender neck. The perfume chief priests and elders had seen that the inside the jar is described as pure nard, a people were on Jesus’ side—hence, they did fragrant ointment possibly imported from not wish to excite further prejudice in His the mountains of India. This was pure and favor; so, their decision was to wait until genuine ointment, thus very costly. The after the Feast of the Passover when the perfume may have been a family heirloom. people had dispersed from Jerusalem. Then The beautiful jar was broken, and the costly they would put Jesus to death. Perhaps ointment poured on Jesus’ head. It was a Judas’s unexpected offer (see 26:14-26) common custom at some Jewish meals for caused them to move sooner than they had the honored guests to be anointed with oil, planned but, as this passage implies, all was but it would not be expensive nard. This act proceeding according to God’s timetable. of devotion by this unnamed woman, who is God overruled their plan to wait for a more a heroine in this narrative, contrasts with the opportune time. The destined hour would treachery of the villains—the religious arrive, and Jesus would be crucified at the leaders and Judas. The focus on an unnamed Passover. woman to the discomfiture of the disciples gives further expression to the Gospel C. A Grateful Woman and a Jar of principle that the last will be first and the Perfume (Matthew 26:6-9) first last—and prepares us for the final act of the story, when it will be Jesus’ women Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, There came unto followers rather than the men who stay with him a woman having an alabaster box of very Him (see 27:55-56). precious ointment, and poured it on his head, The immediate response of the disciples as he sat at meat. But when his disciples saw was anger at the “so-called” waste. Why this it, they had indignation, saying, To what extravagance? Their objection was not 66 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 unfounded. Rabbinic tradition mandated the ordinarily expressed by “good”; it meant selling of luxury items to provide for the noble or honorable. It was the act of a noble poor. Almsgiving was an ongoing obligation soul expressing a noble deed. It was a work that was especially emphasized during of love which was done out of a pure desire Passover week. This woman’s gift to Jesus to honor Jesus. In rebuking His disciples, was worth a year’s wages. Perfume such as Jesus said, “The poor you will always have this was used in burial rites because with you, but you will not always have me” embalming was not the Jewish custom. (verse 11, NIV). Jesus would not remain long Perfume covered the odor of the dead body. with them; in fact, only two or three days The disciples’ pious protest hid their mixed more would He be with them. His disciples reactions. They claimed to have felt moral would have plenty of time and opportunities outrage at the loss of resources for the poor. to aid the poor; the more that they helped However, Jesus wanted them to understand the poor in the name of Christ, the greater that even concern for the poor must never blessings they would receive. The be elevated over devotion to Him. opportunity of making such expressions of love directly to Jesus would not occur again; D. How Much Is Too Much? but hereafter, they could express their love (Matthew 26:10-13) for Him through all generations by giving to When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, the poor. Nothing in Jesus’ words detracts Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath from our ethical and social responsibility to wrought a good work upon me. For ye have assist the poor, which in our global economy the poor always with you; but me ye have is more pressing now than it was then. Jesus not always. For in that she hath poured this was simply saying that the opportunity to ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever show Him such devotion would soon pass. this gospel shall be preached in the whole However, the opportunity to show kindness world, there shall also this, that this woman to the poor would last to the end of the age. hath done, be told for a memorial of her. Jesus added that the unnamed woman What for the disciples was “waste” was had done this to prepare His body for burial for Jesus a “lovely” gesture. When Jesus (verse 12). We do not know whether she had heard what was said, He asked, “Why trouble this in mind when she anointed Jesus, but ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good Jesus ascribed to her act this interpretation. work upon me” (verse 10). This unnamed In ancient times, it was usual to anoint woman was no doubt troubled by these bodies with costly spices and perfumes. murmurings against her, but she stood in Therefore, her act anticipated this usage. silence attempting no defense; but the voice Jesus then proclaimed that wherever this of Jesus whom she loved was raised in her Gospel is preached in the whole world, what defense. Jesus praised her work. “Good she had done would be told in remembrance work” here implied more than what is of her (verse 13). Frequently, people do

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 67 things with not the slightest intention of their understood Jesus’ approaching death any deeds’ being long remembered. This was true more than the disciples. She may have for this woman in our lesson today. realized that something was going to happen However, Jesus memorialized her act and to Jesus, for all knew He was in great danger, declared that wherever this Gospel about and thus she sympathized with Him and Him will be preached, reference to what this honored Him with the greatest gift she could good woman did for Jesus will be made. The give. Her unselfish act would be remembered very thing that caused indignation among His forever. This has come true because we read disciples has become a memorial of love and about it today. While the disciples service to Him. The disciples condemned her misunderstood Jesus’ mission and constantly act, but Jesus honored and blessed it. The argued about places in the kingdom; and story of her good work has been told in while the religious leaders stubbornly refused every known tongue and continues to be told to believe in Jesus and plotted His death, this by a thousand tongues each and every day. one quiet woman so loved Jesus and was so devoted to Him that she considered no III. CONCLUDING REFLECTION sacrifice too great for her beloved Master. The unnamed woman in this anointing She is an example to all of what unselfish scene may not have set out to anoint Jesus’ devotion to our Savior is like. body for burial. She could have been simply PRAYER Eternal God, give us the wisdom to know when we

HOME DAILY BIBLE READINGS are standing in the presence of Jesus. Help us to show (April 8-14, 2019) our love for Jesus Christ through our own acts of love, Called to Remember service, and devotion to others. showing great respect for the teacher she had In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. come to love and admire. She may not have MONDAY, April 8: “The Original Passover Celebration” (Exodus 12:1-14) TUESDAY, April 9: “Care for the Poor” (:19-31) WEDNESDAY, April 10: “Mary Anoints Jesus’ Body for Burial” (John 12:1-8) THURSDAY, April 11: “One Must Die for the Nation” (John 11:47-53) FRIDAY, April 12: “Judas Negotiates the Handover of Jesus” (Matthew 26:14-16) SATURDAY, April 13: “Jesus Celebrates the Last Passover Meal” (Matthew 26:17-29) SUNDAY, April 14: “Jesus Defends the Woman’s Beautiful Act” (Matthew 26:1-13) April 21, 2019 (Easter) Lesson 8

68 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 CALLED TO PROCLAIM THE

RESURRECTION ADULT/YOUTH CHILDREN ADULT/YOUNG ADULT TOPIC: Go and Tell GENERAL LESSON TITLE: Called to Proclaim YOUTH TOPIC: Proclaiming Good News the Resurrection with Others

CHILDREN’S TOPIC: Share Good News DEVOTIONAL READING 1 Corinthians 15:12-22

ADULT/YOUTH CHILDREN BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Matthew 28:1-15 BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Matthew 28:1-15 PRINT PASSAGE: Matthew 28:1-15 PRINT PASSAGE: Matthew 28:1-15 ADULT KEY VERSE: Matthew 28:10 KEY VERSE: Matthew 28:10 YOUTH KEY VERSE: Matthew 28:6

Matthew 28:1-15—KJV Matthew 28:1-15—NIV IN THE end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn AFTER THE Sabbath, at dawn on the fi rst day toward the fi rst day of the week, came Mary of the week, and the other Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the went to look at the tomb. sepulchre. 2 Th ere was a violent earthquake, for an 2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat and came and rolled back the stone from the on it. door, and sat upon it. 3 His countenance was like 3 His appearance was like lightning, and lightning, and his raiment white as snow: his clothes were white as snow. 4 And for fear of him the keepers did 4 Th e guards were so afraid of him that shake, and became as dead men. they shook and became like dead men. 5 And the angel answered and said unto 5 Th e angel said to the women, “Do not the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, which was crucifi ed. Jesus, who was crucifi ed. 6 “He is not here; he 6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place Come, see the place where the Lord lay. where he lay.

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 69 7 “Th en go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has told you.” 8 So the women hurried away from the 7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is tomb, afraid yet fi lled with joy, and ran to tell his risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have “Greetings,” he said. Th ey came to him, clasped told you. 8 And they departed quickly from the his feet and worshiped him. 10 Th en Jesus said sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my bring his disciples word. brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” 9 And as they went to tell his disciples, 11 While the women were on their way, some of behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they the guards went into the city and reported to the

UNIFYING LESSON PRINCIPLE: Many people live with despair and hopelessness. What is the source of genuine hope, and who can off er that hope? Jesus called and continues to call disciples to share and celebrate the Good News of His resurrection and the hope it off ers to the world.

LESSON OBJECTIVES Upon the completion of this lesson, the students will be able to do the following: 1. Tell how the women’s sorrow was turned to joy upon meeting the risen Christ. 2. Recall the joy that was present when they fi rst accepted the Good News about Christ. 3. Commit to a greater involvement in telling others the Good News of Christ. came and held him by the feet, and worshipped chief priests everything that had happened. 12 him. When the chief priests had met with the elders 10 Th en said Jesus unto them, Be not and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into sum of money, Galilee, and there shall they see me. 13 telling them, “You are to say, ‘His 11 Now when they were going, behold, disciples came during the night and stole him some of the watch came into the city, and shewed away while we were asleep.’ unto the chief priests all the things that were 14 “If this report gets to the governor, we done. will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” 12 And when they were assembled with the 15 So the soldiers took the money and did elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large as they were instructed. And this story has been money unto the soldiers, widely circulated among the Jews to this very day. 13 Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by AGE-LEVEL POINTS TO BE night, and stole him away while we slept. 14 And if this come to the governor’s ears, EMPHASIZED we will persuade him, and secure you. Teachers of ADULTS and YOUTH 15 So they took the money, and did as they —To Matthew’s record that the women went “to were taught: and this saying is commonly see” the tomb (verse 1), :1 and Luke reported among the Jews until this day. 24:1 add that they were coming to bring spices risen from the dead and is going ahead of you to anoint Jesus’ body. into Galilee. Th ere you will see him.’ Now I have

70 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 —None of the Gospels describe the this is so, then why didn’t the authorities go to Resurrection, only the discovery of the empty the right tomb and produce Jesus’ body? tomb and some attendant details. Matthew gives more details than the others, alone Teachers of CHILDREN mentioning the earthquake, the angel’s rolling —On the first day of the week, two women away the stone, and the fainting of the guards. —The story the chief priests and elders devise came to the tomb where Jesus was buried. would seem to be self-refuting. If the guards —The women discovered that the stone were asleep, how would they know it was the covering the door of the tomb was rolled disciples who stole the body? Why didn’t they away. seek to arrest the disciples and retrieve the —The angel informed the women that Jesus body? (who was crucified) had risen, and that they —Matthew also records an earthquake at the (the women) were instructed to give Jesus’ death of Jesus (27:50-54). In early Jewish and disciples the same message. Christian thought, an earthquake could —While on their way to share the Good News symbolize eschatological upheaval—either a with His disciples, the women met Jesus and herald of God’s coming or an aspect of divine worshipped Him. judgment. —Jesus asked the women to tell His disciples —Both the angel (verse 7) and Jesus (verse 10) that He would meet them in Galilee. send word for the disciples to go to Galilee. —The soldiers that guarded the tomb were paid Matthew’s story is thus set to end where Jesus’ to tell the lie that Jesus’ disciples had stolen public ministry began (2:22; 3:13; 4:12, 15). His body. —Another argument against the Resurrection is that the women went to the wrong tomb. If THE CHRONOLOGICAL SETTING OF THE GEOGRAPHICAL AND THE LESSON CULTURAL SETTING OF THE The Resurrection narrative begins with the LESSON empty-tomb account. This passage gains In Matthew 27:55-56, the reader learns of “many forcefulness by following immediately upon the women” witnessing the Crucifixion from a story concerning the precautions taken by the distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee Jewish authorities to guard against any intrusion and “provided for him.” Three are identified into the tomb (see Matthew 27:62-66). The specifically: “Mary Magdalene, and Mary the narrative presupposes the resurrection of Jesus, mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of rather than giving an account of how or when it the sons of happened. What matters to all the Gospel writers Zebedee.” That the women do at least witness is not when or how Jesus left the , from a distance sets them apart from the but the simple fact that now, all who believe in disciples, all of whom have fled. However, only God can say with confidence and assurance each two of the aforementioned women will go to the and every Sunday morning, “he is not here, he tomb to see the place where He lay. Mary has risen as he said.”

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 71 Magdalene and the other Mary will play a crucial was crucified and buried, and who went on role in the Resurrection narrative. Having come Easter morning to visit the tomb. to the site of Jesus’ burial on the morning after the Sabbath, they witnessed the empty tomb, KEY TERMS IN THE LESSON heard the angel’s announcement of the Angel (verse 2)—Greek: aggelos (ang’-el-os): Resurrection, and were present at Jesus’ first a messenger from God. resurrection appearance (see Matthew 28:1-10), Be afraid (verse 5)—Greek: phobeō (fo-be’- but they also preceded the disciples in ō): to “fear” (KJV); to be seized with alarm. worshipping the risen Christ. Women were the Countenance (verse 3)—Greek: prosopon last at the Cross and the first at the tomb. It was (proso-pon): the face; surface; “appearance” not uncommon for friends to come and wait by (NIV). a tomb in case an apparently dead person should Sabbath (verse 1)—Greek: sabbaton (sä’b- revive. This might continue as far as the third bäton): the seventh day of each week which was day. The effect of these visits was to confirm a sacred festival on which the Israelites were death. The women who came to perform this sad required to abstain from all work. task of confirming death instead found themselves running for joy, announcing life. Waiting and watching in sadness, they became TOPICAL OUTLINE OF the first witnesses to the Resurrection. Once THE LESSON again, the last are first. I. Introduction A. Christ the Lord Is Risen Today! PROMINENT CHARACTER(S) IN B. Biblical Background THE LESSON II. Exposition and Application Angel: a spiritual being that serves God and of the Scripture supports humankind. According to Scripture, A. The Faithful Visit to Jesus’ Empty Tomb angels were created before human beings. In Job (Matthew 28:1-4) 38:7, their presence at the Creation of the B. The Angel Tells the Women to Carry the universe is noted. Good News! Mary Magdalene: She was one of the women (Matthew 28:5-7) who ministered to Jesus and contributed C. Encountering the Risen Lord financially to Him and His disciples. She was present at the crucifixion and burial of Jesus, and (Matthew 28:8-10) was among the women who went to visit the D. The Cover-up by the Priests tomb on Easter morning. (Matthew 28:11-15) The Other Mary: the mother of James the Younger and Joses, and the wife of Cleophas. III. Concluding Reflection She was one of the women present when Jesus I. INTRODUCTION A. Christ the Lord Is Risen Today!

72 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 Th e resurrection of Jesus from the dead is the central fact of Christian history. On it the church is built; without it there would be no Christian church today. Jesus’ resurrection is unique. Other religions have strong ethical systems, concepts about paradise and afterlife, and various holy books. However, only Christianity has a God who became human, literally died for His people, and was raised again in power and in glory to rule His church forever. Because Christ was raised from the dead, we know that the kingdom of heaven has broken into human history. Our world now has hope for redemption, and not just disaster. We also know that God’s mighty power is at work— destroying sin, creating new lives, and preparing us for Jesus’ . What great news we have for the world! Because of Christ’s resurrection, we know that death has been conquered, and that all who believe on His name will be raised from the dead to live forever with Christ. It is the Resurrection that gives the church her authority to witness to the great things that God has done to save the world. Th e Resurrection is our constant reminder that those who put their trust in God shall never be disappointed. He is mighty to save, and He will do what He has promised. Th e Resurrection is our proof that sin and Satan will not have the last word in our lives. It is the Resurrection that helps us to fi nd meaning even in great tragedy. No matter what happens to us as we walk with the Lord, the Resurrection gives us hope for the future. Because of the Resurrection we know that Christ is alive and ruling His kingdom. Th e power of God that brought Christ’s body back from the dead is available to us to bring our morally and spiritually dead selves back to life, enabling us to change and to grow in Christ Jesus. Th anks be to God who gives us the victory on this Resurrection Day.

B. Biblical Background In Matthew’s gospel, the Resurrection narrative begins as dawn breaks: “After the Sabbath, as the fi rst day of the week was dawning” (verse 1, NRSV). Matthew, like Mark, also recorded the coming of the two women to the Jerusalem tomb. Th ey knew where the tomb was, and they went to see it. Th e Marcan details about what the women were intending to do are missing in the book of Matthew. Th ere is no mention of buying spices, of preparing them as in Luke, or of intending to anoint the corpse. Matthew’s account merely suggests a return to the graveside. Th e women are returning to grieve. At that point, the story takes a decisive turn. Th e message given by the angelic fi gure is that there is no need to fear. Th e prophecies by Jesus of His own rising from the dead have been fulfi lled. Furthermore, the message that He is risen is to be given to His disciples. He will await them in Galilee and will see them there (verse 7). In Matthew, that meeting will signal the beginning of a long history of mission and the new responsibilities “God with us,” ends with angelic

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 73 messengers of teaching and baptizing. The story that began quelling the fears of the women and making with angelic messengers’ quelling the fears of preparations for work in the presence of EmJoseph and making preparation for Emmanuel, manuel to the end of time.

II. EXPOSITION AND APPLICATION OF THE SCRIPTURE A. The Faithful Visit to Jesus’ Empty Tomb will doubt—see verse 17), but He revealed (Matthew 28:1-4) Himself to the women even in Jerusalem. It IN THE end of the sabbath, as it began to is Luke rather than Matthew who is generally dawn toward the first day of the week, came regarded as placing special emphasis on the Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see contribution of women to the origins of the sepulchre. And, behold, there was a great Christianity, but here Matthew gave them a earthquake: for the angel of the Lord place of honor which not even Luke can descended from heaven, and came and rolled envisage. back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his Matthew reported that early on Sunday raiment white as snow: And for fear of him morning, as day was breaking, the women the keepers did shake, and became as dead went to the tomb. The purpose of their visit men. “to see the tomb” (verse 1) sounds rather All the Gospels stress the significance of colorless, but Matthew chose not to mention the women’s being the first witnesses of the their intention to anoint Jesus’ body, perhaps empty tomb. This is hardly likely to be a because the anointing had already been done fictional invention, as it is in a society where in advance (by the woman with the alabaster women were not generally regarded as jar of perfume in Matthew 26:12). The credible witnesses, especially as the singling earthquake, like that described in Matthew out of the women for this honor detracts 27:51, added to the drama of the scene and from the prestige of the male disciples. We to the sense of divine intervention. As the have seen how Matthew 27:55-56 and 27:61 text of Matthew stands, we had an have prepared the ground for women’s roles earthquake Friday afternoon when Jesus as guarantors of the reality of the died, then another one early Sunday morning Resurrection. It was now through them that when Jesus rose from the dead. The first the male disciples were to hear the news and earthquake opened the tombs of some saints, to receive the instructions of their risen but they did not venture forth until the Lord. However, in Matthew their privilege second earthquake and the resurrection of was even more pronounced in that they were Jesus Himself. chosen to be the first to meet with the risen Whereas in Matthew 27:51 it was Jesus Himself. The male disciples must wait apparently the earthquake that opened the until they get to Galilee (and even then, some tombs, here in Matthew 28 the removal of

74 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 the stone from Jesus’ tomb is attributed not Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told to the earthquake, but to the direct action of you. the “angel of the Lord” (verse 2), who rolled The angel ignored the guards and spoke back the stone and sat on it. Whereas in directly to the women—for whose sake He Mark we are only told that the women saw had apparently come—so that they could see “a young man dressed in a white robe sitting inside the already-empty tomb and carry the on the right side” (Mark 16:5, NIV); message to Jesus’ disciples. They, unlike the however, Matthew speaks explicitly of an guards, had no need to be afraid. We have angel whose appearance was like lightning, not been told of their reaction, but and his clothing white as snow. Reference to presumably they too were in awe of the the “angel of the Lord” explains how it is supernatural visitor; but the angel reassured that the women found the stone rolled away. them, just as Jesus had reassured His A being of such awesome power and disciples at the equally spiritual experience of authority is not to be obstructed either by the the Transfiguration (see Matthew 17:7). The size and weight of the stone or by the official poignant description of Jesus as “the one seal of Rome, still less by a detachment of who has been crucified” (see verse 5) left no terrified guards. Note the irony that those room for doubt of the real death of the one assigned to guard the corpse themselves who is now alive again. The angel invited the become “corpses,” while the one they women to look into the inner burial chamber guarded is already alive. The attempt at and “see the place where he lay” (verse 6, human security has been neutralized, and the NIV). However, the absence of the body guards play no further part in the scene until from the place where it had been showed they have to report to their superiors (verses that His resurrection was no less real and 11-15). God raised Jesus from the dead and physical than His death. It is explained sent an angel to roll back the stone. God simply by the fulfillment of Jesus’ repeated used the natural and supernatural world to predictions that one day He would “be bring about His redemptive purposes on our raised” from the dead. However, little they behalf. may have understood what He meant at the time; now that the event has given substance B. The Angel Tells the Women to Carry the to His words, they have them in their Good News! memory as a frame of reference for (Matthew 28:5-7) understanding this unprecedented And the angel answered and said unto the occurrence. women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek The women were not only witnesses of Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for the empty tomb, but they were also the he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place chosen messengers to convey the amazing where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; news to Jesus’ male disciples. The women and, behold, he goeth before you into were told to remind the disciples of Jesus’

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 75 bold promise in Matthew 26:32, the words of showing obeisance to a king) and which are here closely echoed: “he is going worshipped Him, giving homage to their ahead of you into Galilee.” But now the Savior, Lord, and King (verse 9). corollary of His “going ahead” is spelled out: Jesus’ words in verse 10 largely repeated when they get to Galilee, they would see the reassurance and the message given to the Him—not just an empty tomb, but a living women by the angel in verses 5-7. The result Jesus. However, unlike the women, the male of this repetition is that the importance of disciples must wait until Galilee before they the coming meeting in Galilee is further would see Him. The disciples had deserted underlined. There is, however, one Jesus in the hour of trial, but the angel’s significant new element in this verse—the words held hope of renewal and forgiveness. description of the male disciples as “my The disciples had deserted, but they were brothers.” The phrase is not a new one, since directed to meet Jesus in Galilee. This was Jesus had used it before. This time, however, exactly what Jesus had told them during the it followed the abject failure of the Twelve to Last Supper—that He would go ahead of stand with Jesus when the pressure was on, a them into Galilee after His resurrection. failure that was hardly less shameful because Jesus had predicted it in Matthew 26:31. But C. Encountering the Risen now it was time for the second half of that Lord (Matthew 28:8-10) prediction to be fulfilled (see Matthew And they departed quickly from the 26:32), and the Galilean meeting would sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word. And as they went eventually restore the family relationship that to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, they must surely have thought had come to saying, All hail. And they came and held him an end in Gethsemane. by the feet, and worshipped him. Then said D. The Cover-up by the Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my Priests (Matthew brethren that they go into Galilee, and there 28:11-15) shall they see me. The women hurried from the tomb, Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed realizing that they had seen the results of an unto the chief priests all the things that were awesome miracle in the empty tomb and had done. And when they were assembled with been in the presence of an angel. This the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave revelation from God had filled them with a large money unto the soldiers, Saying, Say ye, mixture of fear and joy (verse 8). They His disciples came by night, and stole him obeyed the angel’s command and ran to the away while we slept. And if this come to the governor’s ears, we will persuade him, and eleven disciples with the Good News of the secure you. So they took the money, and did empty tomb and Jesus’ resurrection. As they as they were taught: and this saying is ran from the tomb, Jesus Himself appeared commonly reported among the Jews until in their path. The women took hold of His this day. feet (a Near Eastern custom for a subject 76 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 Matthew 28:11 invites the reader to the tomb was well guarded and that the compare two groups hurrying away from the disciples could not in fact have succeeded in tomb with a message to deliver: the women illegally removing the body of Jesus. He have a message of hope and victory for the further implied that the Jesus the women disciples, while the guards have a message of met in Matthew 28:9-10 was in fact bodily confusion and failure for the chief priests. risen and not a spirit or phantom. Matthew’s Jesus’ resurrection was already causing a story is our story: Christ Jesus lives today! great stir in Jerusalem. A group of women was moving quickly through the streets, III. CONCLUDING REFLECTION looking for the disciples, to tell them the One of the most significant factors in amazing news that Jesus was alive. At the early Christian understanding of the same time, guards were on their way, not to Resurrection is the light it throws on the Pilate but to the chief priests. The guards, doctrine of God. The act of resurrection is having been no more than passive spectators always an act of God. Although Jesus when the angel appeared and opened the claimed the power to take up His life again tomb (verses 2-4), must now account for the after laying it down (see John 10:18), the failure of their watch. The very thing they New Testament does not suggest that the were posted there to prevent had happened: Resurrection was an independent act of Jesus’ body has disappeared from the tomb. Christ. The power behind it was the power Instead of even considering that Jesus’ claims of God. Indeed, the resurrection of Christ is had been true and that He truly was the viewed as the supreme display of divine Messiah risen from the dead, the chief priests power. and elders devised a plan and paid a bribe to the soldiers in order to explain away what HOME DAILY BIBLE READINGS had happened (verses 1214). Apparently, the (April 15-21, 2019) sum of money was worth it because the soldiers took it and did as they were Called to Proclaim the Resurrection instructed (verse 15). It is the act by which the ceaseless round of The story concocted by the chief priests and death and corruption in human life has been elders concerning the missing body of Jesus checked. God has provided a way out of was still being circulated in the days of death into life, by raising His Son from death Matthew’s writing of his gospel. Matthew to life. The Resurrection is essentially a part wrote to counteract such a vicious lie. The of God’s plan for the redemption of disciples did not steal the body of Jesus; humankind. God raised Him from the dead. Matthew’s Our task is to take this joyful news of statement, “this story is still told,” brings to what God has done for us in Christ Jesus an end Matthew’s defense of the and tell it to the entire world. We are indeed Resurrection account. He has argued that to be the bearers of great hope and great joy that come in knowing who Jesus is for us in Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 77 our day and time. The angel’s commission to Eternal God, our Father, on this glorious the women to “go and tell” still applies in Resurrection Day we give You thanks for Jesus our day. Joyful Christians are commissioned Christ, our example and perfect sacrifice. We thank to tell one another of the Resurrection every You for the day, the very hour, He spoke peace to our day. Every week in worship we tell each souls and our redemption was made complete. Give other the Resurrection story when we sing us the strength and courage to tell this Good News to and confess our faith together. any and all we meet. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

PRAYER MONDAY, April 15: “‘I Am the Resurrection and the Life’” (John 11:17-27) TUESDAY, April 16: “Judas Returns Money; Hangs Himself” (Matthew 27:3-10) WEDNESDAY, April 17: “Jesus Crucified” (Matthew 27:32-44) THURSDAY, April 18: “Guards Secure the Tomb” (Matthew 27:62-66) FRIDAY, April 19: “Mary Meets Jesus Outside the Tomb” (John 20:11 -18) SATURDAY, April 20: “Reigning Triumphant with Christ” (Revelation 20:1-6) SUNDAY, April 21: “‘Meet Me in Galilee!’” (Matthew 28:1-15) April 28, 2019 Lesson 9

CALL AND COMMISSIONING ADULT/YOUTH CHILDREN ADULT/YOUNG ADULT TOPIC: A Job to Do GENERAL LESSON TITLE: Jesus Calls and Assigns YOUTH TOPIC: Someone Is Calling You to Go His Disciples CHILDREN’S TOPIC: Going on a Mission

DEVOTIONAL READING Colossians 3:12-17

ADULT/YOUTH BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Matthew 28:16-20; CHILDREN Acts 1:6-8 PRINT PASSAGE: Matthew BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Matthew 28:16-20; 28:16-20; Acts 1:6-8 PRINT PASSAGE: Matthew Acts 1:6-8 ADULT KEY VERSES: 28:16-20; Acts 1:6-8 KEY VERSES: Matthew 28:19-20 YOUTH KEY VERSE: Matthew 28:19, 20 Matthew 28:19

78 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 Matthew 28:16-20; Acts 1:6-8—KJV to me. 19 “Therefore go and make disciples of all 16 Th en the eleven disciples went away into nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had and appointed them. 17 And when they saw him, they of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, worshipped him: but some doubted. 20 “and teaching them to obey everything I have 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, commanded you. And surely I am with you All power is given unto me in heaven and in always, to the very end of the age.” earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, …..

UNIFYING LESSON PRINCIPLE: When there have been dramatic changes in circumstances and in the roles of leadership, people are uncertain of their own roles and responsibilities. Where can they fi nd direction and authority to act? Th e risen Lord commissioned the disciples, giving them authority and responsibility to continue and extend His mission and ministry throughout the world.

LESSON OBJECTIVES Upon the completion of this lesson, the students will be able to do the following: 1. Compare and contrast Jesus’ commission to the apostles on the mountain in Galilee (Matthew 28) with His commission on Mount Olivet (see Acts 1). 2. Take courage that Jesus is present with His disciples as they go into the world to make disciples. 3. Accept the commission to make disciples of all people. baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of 6 Th en they gathered around him and the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to 20 Teaching them to observe all things restore the kingdom to Israel?” whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am 7 And he said unto them, It is not for you with you always, even unto the end of the world. to know the times or the seasons, which the Amen. Father hath put in his own power. ….. 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the 6 When they therefore were come together, they Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all restore again the kingdom to Israel? Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost Matthew 28:16-20; Acts 1:6-8—NIV part of the earth. 16 Th en the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to 7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 times or dates the Father has set by his own When they saw him, they worshiped him; but authority. 8 “But you will receive power when the some doubted. Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my 18 Th en Jesus came to them and said, “All witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and authority in heaven and on earth has been given Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” AGE-LEVEL POINTS TO BE Teachers of ADULTS and YOUTH EMPHASIZED —Th e commission to the disciples, the third “go and tell” command (verses 19-20; cf.

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 79 —Jesus’ instructions to His disciples were for —In Acts 1:8, Jesus informed the disciples that them to teach and baptize in the name of the they would receive power after the Holy Spirit Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. —The disciples’ teaching was to include all the had come upon them, and they would be Jesus’ things commanded by Jesus. witnesses in all the world.

Matthew 28:7, 10) is expressed in rabbinical —Jesus’ fi nal statement in Matthew’s gospel affi terms: go, make disciples, baptize, and teach. rmed His possession of all power. —Th at some would doubt (verse 17) is THE CHRONOLOGICAL SETTING OF surprising at this point in time. For that reason, many assume that this meeting THE LESSON included more than the apostles and, in fact, is The Resurrection narrative comes to its the appearance to fi ve hundred mentioned in climax, as does the entire , in 1 Corinthians 15:6. this its final majestic passage. The women have —Matthew 28:19 is one of the few places in seen the empty tomb and have met the Scripture where an explicit trinitarian formula resurrected Jesus. It is assumed in the present is found (others occur at 1 Corinthians 12:4-6; passage that they relayed Jesus’ message to the 2 Corinthians 13:13; Hebrews 9:14; etc.). disciples, for now the latter are around in Galilee. —Some interpreters note that “go” in verse 19 is Here, as promised, the risen Jesus appeared to a participle, not an imperative. Th e them. And here they received their commission implication in the famous words that have become the hallmark of the gospel of Matthew. These final is that the command is along the lines of “as five verses (Matthew 28:16-20) not only conclude you go, make disciples. . . .” Others, however, the passion-Resurrection narrative of chapters say this is over-interpreting a grammatical 26–28, but also serve as the conclusion to the construction that is better rendered simply entire Gospel. This passage is basic to the “Go and make . . . .” narrative framework of the entire Gospel, since it —Teaching disciples to obey everything Jesus stresses authority and teaching—emphases found has commanded is a fi tting conclusion to the in every section of Matthew’s gospel. gospel of Matthew, which places such emphasis on the teaching and even arranges much of this material into fi THE GEOGRAPHICAL AND ve discrete teaching blocks. CULTURAL SETTING OF Teachers of CHILDREN THE LESSON —Jesus designated the place at which He would Jesus told His disciples before His death that meet His disciples after His resurrection. He would be raised and would meet them in —Jesus’ appearance to His disciples was met Galilee. The angel told the women to bear the with worship and doubt. message to the disciples that Jesus would meet them in Galilee; and then Jesus appeared to the

80 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 women, telling them, “Go tell my brethren that God. This is the point at which His reign as they depart into Galilee and there they shall see Messiah begins. me.” Matthew now records that meeting. At this time, Jesus gave them the worldwide, time-lasting KEY TERMS IN THE LESSON commission. All doubts had now been removed; Authority (Matthew 28:18)—Greek: exousia all evidence was now before them, and they are (eks-ü-sē’-ä): the power of authority (infl now ready to receive this all-important uence) and of right (privilege); “power” (KJV). commission. They would see that the death of Doubted (Matthew 28:17)—Greek: distazō Jesus would not end all, but that His death, (dēstä’-zō): wavered; had hesitation. Witnesses burial, and resurrection constituted the essentials (Acts 1:8)—Greek: martys (mä’r-tüs): persons facts of the Gospel which they were to proclaim who bear witness, testify. to the world. Their work, instead of ending, was Worshipped (Matthew 28:17)—Greek: just now beginning; their despair at the death of proskyneō (pros-kü-ne’-ō): in the New Jesus was turned into the glorious hope of the Testament, by kneeling or prostration to do Gospel. homage (to one) or make obeisance, whether to Those who are disciples of Jesus, and who express respect or to make supplication; have then been baptized into the name of the “worshiped” (NIV). Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, are to be taught to observe all things which train and develop a child of God. Three things are TOPICAL OUTLINE OF commanded in the commission to be done— THE LESSON namely, (1) make disciples; (2) baptize those who I. Introduction are disciples; and (3) then teach them to be A. Th e Hope and Promise of the obedient to all the commands of God. Finally, Resurrection there is a promise made to them in this charge: B. Biblical Background “And, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” This promise extends His spiritual presence and blessings to all who serve under His commission. I. INTRODUCTION A. The Hope and Promise of the PROMINENT CHARACTER(S) IN Resurrection II. Exposition and Application THE LESSON of the Scripture The Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit or Holy Ghost A. Th e Commissioning of the Eleven is the third person (hypostasis) of the Trinity— the Trinity being the Triune God manifested as (Matthew 28:16) Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—each person itself B. Th e Place of Doubt among the Faithful being God. The Resurrected Messiah: For the (Matthew 28:17) earliest Christian preaching, it is the Resurrection C. All Authority in Heaven and on Earth that designates Jesus as the Christ, the Son of Has Been Given to Jesus (Matthew 28:18)

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 81 D. Go Make Disciples! (Acts 1:6-8) (Matthew 28:19-20) E. Empowered by the Spirit III. Concluding Refl ection Th e risen Christ is central to the existence and proclamation of the church. Th ere would be no Gospel if there had been no resurrection. Th e Resurrection, however, is not simply a datum of history, words about a past event. Th e Resurrection has enormous consequence for present Christian existence. It is the risen Jesus, to whom all authority in heaven and earth has been given, who here commissions His disciples and in eff ect the church of every period of history. Th e disciples are to go everywhere with the message of Good News in the name and authority of Jesus. Th eirs is indeed an awesome responsibility—to go, make disciples of all nations, baptize, and teach. If left to their own devices and strength, the task would be overwhelming. Yet, they are not left alone in this assignment. Th e risen, enthroned Jesus promised to be with them in their fulfi llment of it—not intermittently, but always. Evidence of the truth of that promise is readily available in the narrative of the book of Acts, as well as in the history of the church, which has seen a network of believers around the world in every land of every race come into existence from what began just after the death of Jesus with but a handful of doubting, confused, and powerless disciples. Th e statements that frame the commission on either side concerning the authority and the presence of Jesus alone allow the church to continue in the world. Only the ongoing reality of these facts can continue to equip the church for her mission—a mission that will continue until the consummation of the age. Th e Great Commission on which Matthew ends his gospel remains one of the priceless treasures of the Christian resurrection, whatever the transformation of church, providing comfort, strength, and hope that body may have been. Matthew alone placed until the final dawning of the eschaton (the Jesus’ first appearance to the eleven disciples in biblical perspective concerning events to take Galilee. When the Eleven saw Jesus, they worplace in the last days). This Good News of the shipped Him, but some doubted; however, there kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the is no hint that the doubters were persons other world as a testimony to what God has done for than from the Eleven. The transparent honesty us in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. of the Gospels is reflected in these forthright confessions of the doubts of the apostles, and B. Biblical Background the case for the fact of the Resurrection and The resurrection of Jesus belongs to the subsequent appearances is thereby strengthvery foundation of Christian faith and procla- ened. The disciples had not expected to see mation. By resurrection, no New Testament Jesus again, and both the reports of these apwriter means simply a vision of Christ or a pearances and His actual presence among them purely spiritual survival. They mean a bodily were almost too good to be true.

82 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 II. EXPOSITION AND APPLICATION OF THE SCRIPTURE A. The Commissioning of the Eleven risk, of daring to believe that the Lord will be (Matthew 28:16) at the end of the journey. In Matthew’s gospel, Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a faith is frequently simple obedience to Jesus’ mountain where Jesus had appointed them. command. In Matthew 28:11, Jesus took the imper- By coming to Galilee, the disciples came fect number “11” and gave it a perfect vocation. to the place of Jesus’ earthly ministry, and The church that Jesus sends into the world is so they reconnected with the historical, prefallible, “elevenish,” imperfect. Yet, Jesus used Resurrection Jesus—the Jesus to whom the exactly such a church to do His perfect work. Great Commission especially wanted to unite The eleven disciples commissioned by Jesus disciples. In this Galilean meeting, the disciples were not called leaders, church officers, or even return to their beginnings, and at the same time apostles, but simply disciples. No complex and in the same place their lives now break out church structure is visible in the Great Com- onto a worldwide horizon. Moreover, the fact mission. The Eleven obeyed the angelic com- that the disciples met Jesus in a group in Galimand relayed by the faithful women (verses 7, lee and not, say, one by one in private, honors 10). The call to come to Galilee was the call to the church’s simple meeting places and public believe the Lord and His resurrection enough worship services. This meeting says that the to make a trip. It was a call to trust Jesus almost risen Jesus, like the , still meets in an Abrahamic way, for it was a call to come disciples in a special way in the fellowship of meet someone who might not be there. The believing people. Thus, in this verse there is a faith of the disciples still had this element of little doctrine of Christ and a little doctrine of the church. The Great Commission is brothers” mentioned by Paul in 1 nothing less than a summary of the whole Corinthians 15:6. But the Matthean text does gospel of Matthew. not allow for this; it says that among the eleven who saw Jesus, there were some who B. The Place of Doubt among the doubted—which means they had hesitations Faithful about believing in Jesus’ resurrection. Quite (Matthew 28:17) possibly on their walk from Jerusalem to And when they saw him, they worshipped Galilee, lengthy discussions were held. him: but some doubted. Matthew may have been reporting some of In an effort to exclude the eleven the doubts and concerns still lingering in the disciples from having “doubted” (verse 17), minds of the eleven chosen disciples. Of some scholars have suggested that the phrase course, they would eventually be fully “they saw him” refers to more than just the convinced and believe. eleven disciples—perhaps the “five hundred

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 83 It should not strike believers as odd that the point of horrible death, and was raised some of the disciples struggled with doubt. again in victory to receive all authority over No Christian grows in faith without some heaven and earth—something Satan could doubt. Mother Theresa, the Catholic nun never have given because it was never his in who dedicated her life to the poor of the first place. Calcutta, India, left behind a personal diary From the risen Jesus the claim to have all filled with doubts about her faith and her authority has all-the-more-convincing power. work among the poor. When doubts come The Resurrection serves as a vindication of we should not be discouraged; they are not a the words and deeds of Jesus during His sign of sin or failure. They are a normal part ministry. Now the resurrected (not of spiritual growth. In seasons of doubts resuscitated!) Jesus who appeared before the concerning our faith, we should keep talking disciples is one who partakes of a new order to thoughtful Christian friends and teachers. of existence and who here anticipated His We should keep asking questions and glorious exaltation at God’s right hand (see looking for answers. We should keep :51). It is accordingly the One who praying. has “all authority in heaven and on earth” God gave us a mind to discover His truth, who now sends out His disciples to and sometimes on the way to that truth we evangelize the world. This is to provide them have to struggle with doubt until a in turn with authority and supply them with breakthrough of unwavering faith comes. confidence as they go. D. Go Make Disciples! C. All Authority in Heaven and on Earth (Matthew 28:19-20) Has Been Given to Jesus Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, (Matthew 28:18) baptizing them in the name of the Father, And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: All power is given unto me in heaven and in Teaching them to observe all things earth. whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of God gave Jesus authority over heaven the world. Amen. and earth, a sweeping concept that implies This connection between the authority of divine status. He has “all authority”—that is, Jesus and the fulfilling of the tasks now nothing is outside of His sovereign control. assigned to the disciples in Matthew’s gospel The major message here and in Matthew and those who come after them is made 28:20 is that Jesus, the one raised from the plain in the connective, “therefore” (verse dead, has the authority of God Himself. 19). Jesus’ authority (verse 18) and His During Satan’s temptation of Jesus, Satan presence (verse 20) would empower His had offered “all the kingdoms of the world disciples to fulfill the commission He gave and their splendor” (Matthew 4:8, NIV). them. The disciples were to “go” and “make Jesus resisted the tempter, obeyed God to disciples.” They were to go into all the world. 84 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 The universal authority of Jesus is the Jesus to all nations, a task acknowledged and basis of the universal mission of the church. fulfilled by the early church. Now we finally The word disciple means above all “learner” arrive at the full inclusion of the Gentiles in or “pupil.” Interestingly enough, the usual the history of salvation. missionary terms are not employed here: The disciples are further told to preach, convert, win, and so forth. Rather, they “baptize” the new disciples (verse 19). Only are told to make disciples. To disciple means Matthew records this command of Jesus, but “to make students of,” “bring to school,” the practice of the early church suggests its and “educate.” The word pictures students historicity. Yet now, the full-blown rite of sitting around a teacher more than it does Christian baptism is introduced without any penitents kneeling at an altar—to make indication that this is something new. For disciples is more of an educational process Matthew’s readers, it was presumably so than an evangelistic concept, a school more familiar as to need no explanation. than a revival. The word’s prosaic character “Baptizing them in the name of the Father, says in effect, “Work with people over a and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” period of time in the educative process of (verse 19b)—it is one name with three teaching Jesus.” names, one God in three persons. “Into the Only the one who has all authority can name of” comes from the world of banking do the big things like win, convert, bring to and means “to the account of” or “into the repentance, or move a person to decision— possession of.” Thus, by baptism, believers that authority is Jesus’ alone. However, come onto the account and into the disciples can, must, and will do the job possession of the great God; baptized within their power of “discipling” others— believers come under new management. that is, they will spend prolonged time with They are transferred to a new “company”— people in the confidence that sooner or later into the fellowship of those who worship the Lord Jesus will create in these people the God the Father through listening to the decision to follow Him and be baptized. teaching of Jesus Christ, His Son, by the Effective witnessing is telling others about drawing power of the Holy Spirit; they Jesus Christ and leaving the results to God. become members of the holy, catholic Jesus’ “all nations” gives disciples church and of God’s own family. The reason worldwide ambitions; it creates longings to why “baptizing” is put within the Great see a universal spread of the mission, a Commission is that it is more than an worldwide renewal of the churches, and an initiating ceremony; it is spiritual and international conversion among all peoples. effectual, empowering and connecting. We Now after the death and resurrection of could appropriately paraphrase “baptizing Jesus, for the first time the limitation of the them” by saying “empowering them into the Gospel to Israel is removed. The direct possession of the loving Father, the life- commission is given to take the message of

Spring 2018–TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY | 85 giving teaching of the Son, and the power of is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses the Holy Spirit.” unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, The final element of the Great and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Commission is found in Jesus’ instructions to the disciples to go teach. They are told to do When the disciples gathered after that what Jesus Himself did. In addition, indeed first Resurrection Sunday, they did so as the gospel of Matthew provided the church those who wait and question. What they with an excellent handbook containing that know of what had happened in the teaching. It is thus the peculiar responsibility Resurrection was the source of their hope of the church to hand on that teaching and but also of their yearning. They wanted to see to it that new disciples make it their Christ to fulfill His promise of restoration, to way of life. The commission of the disciples finish the work begun. When? they ask. As is followed by a promise that must have the recipients of their Lord’s instruction and cheered up the hearts of those to whom so witnesses to His death and resurrection, they much responsibility was being given. The know the decisive battle has been fought and promise of the Lord Jesus is, “I am with you won—but not yet. Now, in the meantime, always” (verse 20). Jesus, though not they wait as those who are still dependent physically present among them, would not upon the Father’s faithfulness, those who abandon them. He would be in their midst, have no control over the timetable of a though unseen, and would empower them to beneficent God who graciously allows fulfill the commission He has given them. enough time to accomplish the work begun Those who receive the messengers of the in Jesus. But their waiting is not empty- Good News will receive Jesus Himself. handed. They wait in hope as those who Moreover, the promise of Jesus’ continuing know their Master has been taken up where presence with them is not restricted to any He is exalted at the right hand of God. The special circumstances, nor is it made simply followers of Christ know that the one who for the immediate future. He promised to be served, taught, and loved them now rules with them and with us “to the end of the them. But this knowledge is no smug inside age” (all the days until the consummation of knowledge for the privileged few. It is a the age). knowledge which demands a witness. Thus, in the meantime they are given a job to do E. Empowered by the Spirit and will have power with which to do it. The (Acts 1:6-8) time between the Resurrection and the When they therefore were come together, restoration of the kingdom is the gracious they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? interim for witness. And he said unto them, It is not for you to The coming of the Spirit would imbue know the times or the seasons, which the them with the power to become effective Father hath put in his own power. But ye witnesses for their Master. A witness is one shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost who is able to give testimony based on 86 | TOWNSEND PRESS COMMENTARY–Spring 2018 knowledge. One must know Christ in order Call and Commissioning to bear witness to Him. An unbeliever, no given to Jesus, He commands us to tell matter how much he might have seen and others the Good News and make them heard Him, cannot qualify. The Resurrection disciples for the kingdom. We are to go— was a key element in this testimony, and only whether it is next door or to another believers had seen the risen Lord. “You will country—and make disciples. It is not an be my witnesses” (verse 8) is both prophecy option, but a command to all who call Jesus and command. As prophecy, the disciples “Lord.” We are not all evangelists in the could count on its realization; as command, formal sense, but we have all received gifts they were bound to sense the responsibility that we can use to help fulfill the Great to make themselves obediently available. Commission. As we obey, we have comfort Implied in our Lord’s words is the duty to in the knowledge that Jesus is always with us. make Him their message. In this gracious “Always” literally means “all the days” and interim, there is work to be done; let the refers to the presence of Christ with each church be about that work in the meantime, believer every moment. This would occur secure in the promise that this Jesus, who through the Holy Spirit’s presence in was so dramatically taken from His disciples, believers’ lives. The Holy Spirit would be shall return in the same way. Our duty as Jesus’ presence that would never leave them. witnesses is to get all excited and go tell Jesus continues to be with us today through everybody that Jesus Christ is King! His Spirit. Our job is to tell the whole world about Jesus! III. CONCLUDING REFLECTION With all authority in heaven and earth now PRAYER We give You thanks, O God, for Your Son, Jesus, HOME DAILY BIBLE READINGS whom You sent to die for our sins. We give praise (April 22-28, 2019) and thanks to You for raising Him to life anew with the promise that all who believe and trust His name shall one day rise into newness of eternal life. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. MONDAY, April 22: “A Place of Renewal” (Isaiah 2:1-4) TUESDAY, April 23: “Body Building for Baptized Believers” (1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Colossians 3:12-17) WEDNESDAY, April 24: “Lydia and Her Household Are Baptized” (Acts 16:11-15) THURSDAY, April 25: “Jailer and His Household Are Baptized” (Acts 16:25-34) FRIDAY, April 26: “Reaching New People” (Acts 18:5-11) SATURDAY, April 27: “Matthias Chosen to Replace Judas” (Acts 1:12-17, 21-26) SUNDAY, April 28: “Disciples: Called and Commissioned” (Matthew 25:16-20; Acts 1:6-8)

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